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.

This strategy "will backfire for specific audiences, particularly Westerners and others from democracies who are used to having freedom of expression," said Bohl.

From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026

“They will backfire at some stage because they exclude kids from their digital life.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

While it can be tempting to try to win those people back by saying, "go ahead and enjoy your conspiracy theories," that attitude will backfire.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2024

He believes it will backfire, increasing the resolve of Taiwanese people to resist China.

From BBC • Aug. 15, 2024

The warnings her gran always issued drummed through her: Whatever is conjured with an ill heart will backfire.

From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton