French translation of backwards is 
vers l’arrière

Meaning of "backwards" in English

"Backwards" refers to the direction or orientation opposite to the usual forward motion or progression. It denotes moving towards the starting point or earlier position, often suggesting regression or reversal. This term can describe physical movement, such as walking backwards, or metaphorically imply retreat or reverting to a previous state. Additionally, "backwards" can reflect outdated or less advanced ideas, highlighting backwardness in development or thought processes. Its usage spans various contexts, illustrating both literal and figurative returns to past states or actions.

Meaning of "vers l’arrière" in French

"Vers l’arrière" in French translates to "backwards" in English and describes movement or orientation towards the rear or away from the original forward direction. It is used similarly to express physical motion, such as moving, walking, or looking backwards. Beyond physical movement, the term can metaphorically suggest a return to a previous or less developed state in thinking or progress. In general contexts, "vers l’arrière" emphasizes opposing the customary forward progression, whether in time, direction, or development.

Pronunciation of "backwards" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈbæk.wɜːrdz/

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, "backwards" may sound like /ˈbæk.wɚrdz/, with a more pronounced rhotic 'r'. In British English, the pronunciation tends to be non-rhotic, often dropping the 'r' sound. The emphasis typically remains on the first syllable across dialects, but regional accents can influence vowel sounds slightly.

Pronunciation of "vers l’arrière" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /vɛʁ la.ʁjɛʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "vers l’arrière" remains relatively consistent across French-speaking regions, with minor variations in vowel articulation or accentuation influenced by local dialects. Generally, the 'r' is lightly rolled, and the vowel sounds can vary slightly, adding unique regional nuances to the phrase.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. He walked backwards to avoid stepping on the flowers. (Il marchait vers l’arrière pour éviter de marcher sur les fleurs.)
2. The clock seemed to be ticking backwards. (L’horloge semblait tourner vers l’arrière.)
3. She glanced backwards and saw her friend waving. (Elle a jeté un coup d'œil vers l’arrière et a vu son ami faire signe.)
4. Driving backwards in a narrow street is challenging. (Conduire vers l’arrière dans une rue étroite est difficile.)
5. They worked hard to reverse the decision and move backwards in the process. (Ils ont travaillé dur pour inverser la décision et revenir en arrière dans le processus.)
6. Sometimes, thinking backwards can help solve problems. (Parfois, penser vers l’arrière peut aider à résoudre des problèmes.)
7. The film played backwards to reveal the hidden message. (Le film a été passé vers l’arrière pour révéler le message caché.)
8. He stumbled backwards and almost fell over. (Il a trébuché vers l’arrière et a failli tomber.)
9. The company went backwards in their progress due to the setback. (L’entreprise a reculé dans ses progrès en raison du revers.)
10. She danced backwards gracefully, impressing everyone. (Elle a dansé vers l’arrière avec grâce, impressionnant tout le monde.)

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

Synonyms: reverse, rearward, retrograde, inverse, back, regressively, rearwards, retroactively, in retreat, inversely.

Antonyms: forwards, onward, ahead, forward, advancing, progressive, future, onward.

Similar Words: back, retreat, return, regressive, retrograde.

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

Synonyms: en arrière, de recul, à reculons, régressif, en retrait, vers le fond, en sens inverse, à rebours.

Antonyms: vers l’avant, en avant, progressif, avancé, en progression, futur, en cours.

Similar Words: arrière, retour, de recul, régressif, rétrograde.

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