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backfire
[ bak-fahyuhr ]
verb (used without object)
- (of an internal-combustion engine) to have a loud, premature explosion in the intake manifold.
- to bring a result opposite to that which was planned or expected:
The plot backfired.
Synonyms: , , ,
backfire
/ ˌæˈڲɪə /
verb
- (of an internal-combustion engine) to emit a loud noise as a result of an explosion in the inlet manifold or exhaust system
- (of an endeavour, plan, etc) to have an unwanted effect on its perpetrator
his plans backfired on him
- to start a controlled fire in order to halt an advancing forest or prairie fire by creating a barren area
noun
- in an internal-combustion engine
- an explosion of unburnt gases in the exhaust system
- a premature explosion in a cylinder or inlet manifold
- a controlled fire started to create a barren area that will halt an advancing forest or prairie fire
Word History and Origins
Example Sentences
Underpinning this approach is absolute conviction that the US is making a mistake that will primarily and visibly backfire on itself, its companies, and its consumers.
"In its current form the Employment Rights Bill could backfire, putting the brakes on hiring, or worse still, putting retail job numbers further into reverse."
Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, welcomed efforts to resolve asylum cases quickly, but warned the use of AI could "backfire" if it produced flawed decisions that end up in the courts.
"I was trying to do something nice for my kids and it backfired on me," said Mr Reddock.
They also urged Lords to consider if guaranteeing workers fixed-hours contracts could backfire, reduce flexibility for both employers and staff, and introduce unnecessary administrative costs.
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