French translation of backward is 
vers l’arrière

Meaning of "backward" in English

The word "backward" in English generally refers to a direction or movement going to the reverse side or returning to a previous state. It can describe physical motion, like moving in the opposite direction of forward, or it can be used metaphorically to describe progress or development that is regressive or lacking in advancement. Additionally, it can imply something that is behind in time or development. Such a description can apply to various contexts, including technology, social progress, or education.

Meaning of "vers l’arrière" in French

In French, "vers l’arrière" is used to describe motion or a direction that is to the rear or opposite of forward. It can be used in both literal and figurative senses, similar to its English counterpart. Literally, it can refer to physical movement, such as when a car reverses. Figuratively, "vers l’arrière" might describe a situation where progress is stalled or regressing, like outdated technology or a setback in social matters. This phrase helps convey a sense of moving away from a present or forward position.

Pronunciation of "backward" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈbæk.wərd/

Pronunciation Variations: There are minor variations in the pronunciation of "backward" depending on regional accents, such as American or British English. In American English, it might be pronounced more sharply, while in British English, it might have a softer articulation of the 'r'.

Pronunciation of "vers l’arrière" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /vɛʁ laʁ.jɛʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: Variations in pronunciation can occur based on the speaker's region, such as Parisian French versus other French dialects. The 'r' is typically pronounced in the back of the throat in standard French, but this can vary slightly in different regions.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. She took a step backward when she saw the snake. (Elle a fait un pas vers l'arrière quand elle a vu le serpent.)
2. The project seemed to move backward instead of forward. (Le projet semblait aller vers l’arrière au lieu d’avancer.)
3. He glanced backward to check if anyone was following him. (Il a jeté un coup d'œil vers l’arrière pour vérifier si quelqu'un le suivait.)
4. The clock was set backward by an hour for daylight saving time. (L'horloge a été reculée d'une heure pour l'heure d'été.)
5. His thinking was considered backward by modern standards. (Sa façon de penser était considérée comme rétrograde par les normes modernes.)
6. The old village seemed somewhat backward and isolated. (Le vieux village semblait quelque peu arriéré et isolé.)
7. She drove backward to park the car in the tight space. (Elle a reculé pour garer la voiture dans l’espace restreint.)
8. Financially, the company was moving backward after the loss. (Financièrement, la société reculait après la perte.)
9. He walked backward to avoid stepping into the mud. (Il a marché vers l'arrière pour éviter de marcher dans la boue.)
10. The movie depicted a journey backward in time. (Le film décrivait un voyage vers l'arrière dans le temps.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "backward" in English

Synonyms: reverse, rearward, regressive, retrograde, inverse, behind, underdeveloped, primitive, outdated, retarded.

Antonyms: forward, progressive, advanced, forward-thinking, modern, current, ahead, developed, up-to-date, innovative.

Similar Words: reverse, regressive, retro, undeveloped, behindhand, underdeveloped, withdrawn, reversed, retreating, back.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "vers l’arrière" in French

Synonyms: en arrière, à reculons, derrière, rétro, en retrait, en refuge, à la traîne, en carafe.

Antonyms: en avant, en progrès, avancé, moderne, à jour.

Similar Words: en recul, à rebours, à l'arrière, retiré, renversé.

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