BACKWARD definition: toward the back or rear. See examples of backward used in a sentence.

BACKWARD definition: 1. not advanced: 2. towards the direction that is the opposite to the one in which you are facing…. Learn more.

While technically backwards is interchangeable with backward, the overwhelmingly preferred spelling in the United States is backward, whether it is used as an adjective or an adverb.

Aug 5, 2025 · Understand the difference between “backward” and “backwards” and when to use each in American or British English for clear, correct writing.

Is backwards a word? Learn how to use backwards and backward with definitions and sentence examples at Writing Explained.

To summarize, backward is an adjective that characterizes something as reverse or regressive, whereas backwards is primarily used as an adverb to describe a motion done in reverse.

1. backward (s) and forward (s), in every detail; thoroughly. 2. bend, lean, or fall over backward, to exert oneself to the utmost; make a serious effort.

The meaning of BACKWARD is toward the back or rear. How to use backward in a sentence.

Apr 25, 2023 · In this article, we will define the words backward and backwards, explain the main difference between them, and provide examples of how we typically use them in sentences.

Nov 25, 2025 · While their meanings are similar and both refer to something that is directed or moving toward the rear or behind, “backward” is generally preferred in American English, whereas …