Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
backpedal
verb
/ˈbakˌpedl/
Definition
To reverse one’s previous position or opinion, often in response to criticism or changing circumstances.
Examples
- After facing criticism, the politician decided to backpedal on his earlier comments about tax reform.
- She quickly backpedaled when her friends called her out for being too harsh in her judgment.
- He had to backpedal from his initial claim once new evidence surfaced.
Meaning
To retreat from one’s previous stance or statement, usually because of backlash or the realization that one was wrong.
Synonyms
- retract
- withdraw
- recant
- reverse
- retreat
