Backfire and Fizzle

Backfire

Backfire verb - To have the reverse of the desired or expected effect.
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Synonyms for Backfire

Fizzle and backfire are semantically related. In some cases you can use "Fizzle" instead a verb "Backfire".

Nearby Words: backfired, backfiring

Fizzle

Fizzle verb - To make a sound like that of stretching out the speech sound \s\.

Backfire and fizzle are semantically related. Sometimes you can use "Backfire" instead a verb "Fizzle".

Nearby Words: fizz, fizzled, fizzling

Common collocations

way backfire way fizzle way

Both words in one sentence

  • Inept Mage All spellcasting classes in the Wizardry series are like this at first, barring alchemy-based casters, until they build up their Oratory skill-a low Oratory gives spells a chance to backfire or fizzle.
    Source: Inept Mage
  • Magic Misfire Alchemists and those who use their spellbook (rangers and ninjas) are fortunately exempt from this, but if they do change to another type of spellcaster, they have to then learn Oratory or their spells will fizzle and backfire.
    Source: Magic Misfire
Cite this Source
Fizzle and Backfire. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 02, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/fizzle
Backfire & Fizzle. N.p., 2016. Web. 02 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/fizzle>.
Fizzle or Backfire. 2016. Accessed August 02, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/fizzle.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "backfire" and "fizzle" have occurred on timeline