backtrack
verb (used without object)
to return over the same course or route.
have backtracked
-
present perfectof backtrack.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
“A lot of us, our hope is that eventually, history will straighten this all out and say, no, Gloria came in a little later, and her very loyal supporters have backtracked that history.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 3, 2026
Millions of exhaust-belching motorbikes zip through Hanoi's narrow streets every day fuelling its chronic air pollution, but authorities have backtracked from an ambitious plan to ban them in favour of electric two-wheelers.
From Barron's ● May 19, 2026
In some cases, officials have backtracked on measures in response to public outcry.
From New York Times ● Jul. 20, 2022
Since the departure of Evans however, the show's producers have backtracked slightly.
From BBC ● Mar. 4, 2017
I crane my neck to see if, by any chance, she might have backtracked to find us.
From "The Sky at Our Feet" by Nadia Hashimi
