backtracking

/ˈbæk.træk/ (bre, ipa) · [bˈæktrˌækɪŋ] /ˈbæk.træk/ (ame, ipa) · [bˈæktrˌækɪŋ] /ˈbak-ˌtrak How to pronounce backtrack (audio)/ (ame, mw)

backtracking — verb

  • backtrackingpresent simple I / you / we / they
  • backtrackings3rd person singular
  • backtrackinging-ing form
  • backtrackingedpast simple

1. to return over the same route because the way ahead is wrong, blocked, or unsafe

1.動詞不及物B2
釋義

to return over the same route because the way ahead is wrong, blocked, or unsafe

例句

After reaching the locked gate, Indra started backtracking toward the campsite.

backtracking toward [previous place] after blocked route

Yael was backtracking along the trail when the rain began.

backtracking along [route]

同義詞
  • retrace

    more formal and often used for steps or movements

  • turn back

    broader everyday phrase for stopping and going back

  • double back

    stresses returning over the same path, often suddenly

反義詞
  • continue

    keeps going forward instead of returning

  • press on

    suggests continuing despite difficulty

文法句型

backtracking + along [route]

backtracking + to/towards [earlier place]

用法筆記

Often followed by along, to, or towards to show the route being retraced. Common in hiking, driving, and search contexts where someone returns over the same ground.

常見錯誤

❌We kept backtracking deeper into the cave.
✅We kept moving deeper into the cave.
💡Backtracking means going back over ground you have already covered, not continuing forward.

2. to soften or take back what you said before after pressure, criticism, or new do

2.動詞不及物B2
釋義

to soften or take back what you said before after pressure, criticism, or new doubt

例句

The minister is backtracking after parents protested against the school cuts.

public backtracking after criticism

After the leaked memo appeared, Felix began backtracking on his promise.

backtracking on [promise]

同義詞
  • climb down

    more strongly suggests a public and embarrassing retreat

  • walk back

    common in journalism for softening a statement without fully denying it

  • retreat

    broader word that can be physical or figurative, not only verbal

反義詞
  • stand by

    means continuing to support the earlier position

  • double down

    suggests repeating the same position even more strongly

文法句型

backtracking + on [promise/claim]

backtracking + from [remark/position]

用法筆記

Often followed by on or from before the earlier opinion or promise. It usually suggests outside pressure or embarrassment, not a calm private change of mind.

常見錯誤

❌The mayor backtracked his promise.
✅The mayor backtracked on his promise.
💡This sense is usually intransitive and commonly takes on or from before the earlier statement.