Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sources agreed the desperate lobbying effort had backfired on Capitol Hill.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2024

We looked toward the street, where an engine had backfired loudly.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 27, 2023

He also made no reference to the fact that an energy-saving measure by the government had backfired.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 24, 2023

He made no reference to the fact that an energy-saving measure by the government had backfired.

From Washington Times • Jan. 24, 2023

A hands-off policy had backfired, the insurgents had gathered strength.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols