backward
Translation
backward, backwards
Examples
He took a step backward.
He took a step backward.
Can you say the alphabet backward?
Can you say the alphabet backward?
The car rolled backward down the hill.
The car rolled backward down the hill.
Grammar Patterns
((verb of motion)) backward to move in a reverse direction He took a step backward.
Similar Words
Synonyms: rearward, in reverse; Antonyms: forward, onward
Etymology
Composed of 'back' and the suffix '-ward', which indicates direction.
Memory Tips
Remember it as the direct opposite of 'forward'. The '-ward' suffix is a useful key for words indicating direction.