26984 words

backfires

4 definitions • 3 examples
1
(of a plan) to have the opposite result from the one you intended:

Examples:

Her plans to make him jealous backfired on her when he started dating her best friend.
2
(of an engine) to make a loud noise as a result of fuel burning too early:

Examples:

I was woken by the sound of a truck backfiring.
3
(of a plan) to have the opposite result from the one you intended:

Examples:

Some hotel owners worry that the idea of attracting more visitors may backfire and make the place less attractive.
4
(of an engine) to make a loud noise because the fuel burned too soon

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