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.

Mr Huang blasted the policies as a "failure" and said they were backfiring against American companies.

From BBC • May 28, 2025

President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, a senior U.S. official said recently, may well have come to the conclusion that the threats, which he once saw as leverage, were backfiring.

From New York Times • Feb. 3, 2023

By that point, Taft's positions were backfiring on him.

From Salon • Jan. 7, 2023

Horras, whose national organization is supporting the USC breakaway groups, said the university’s group sanctions were backfiring.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 20, 2022

Burt didn't like the audience, and I guess he figured his plans were backfiring when Doc didn't bluff.

From Trees Are Where You Find Them by Savage, Arthur Dekker