backtrack
Translation
to backtrack, to retrace one's steps, to retract
Examples
We had to backtrack to find the lost keys.
We had to backtrack to find the lost keys.
The politician had to backtrack on his earlier comments.
The politician had to backtrack on his earlier comments.
Grammar Patterns
((on sth.)) to retract a statement about (sth.) The politician had to backtrack on his earlier comments.
((to a place)) to return to (a place) We had to backtrack to the last village.
Similar Words
Synonyms: retrace, retract, retreat; Antonyms: advance, proceed
Etymology
Composed of 'back' (towards the rear) and 'track' (a path or course). Literally, to go back over a track.
Memory Tips
Imagine you're on a trail (a track) and have to go back. This applies both to physical paths and to arguments or statements.