BACK-PEDAL Definition & Meaning

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back-pedal

[bak-ped-l]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used without object)

back-pedaled, back-pedaling , back-pedalled, back-pedalling .

to retard the forward motion by pressing backward on the pedal, especially of a bicycle with coaster brakes.
to retreat from or reverse one's previous stand on any matter; shift ground.
to back-pedal after severe criticism.
Boxing.��to retreat from an opponent, especially by stepping rapidly backward.

back-pedal

verb

to turn the pedals of a bicycle backwards
to retract or modify a previous opinion, principle, etc
boxing to take backward steps

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of back-pedal¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

He said this should include "reducing carbon emissions by 60% over the next decade. Without American leadership, it’s easy for other countries to come up with excuses and do less, and even back-pedal."

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But the Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria - like others in Africa - has had to back-pedal as many of the continent's governments do not want their nationals to fight in Ukraine.

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Mateusz Klich and Bamford shot high over Pickford’s crossbar, Calvert-Lewin dragged a chance wide and, having lived dangerously when he sprayed a clearance straight to Rodríguez, Meslier had to back-pedal to catch the playmaker’s attempted lob.

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Chamblee had to back-pedal like a defensive back on that one throughout the week at Bethpage Black as Koepka stormed to his fourth major title.

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Like a standup comedian who realizes he has gone too far, he was forced to back-pedal: “No, no. Don’t worry, nobody accepted it. But I tried like hell, I’ll tell you.”

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back pay back plastering

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