Backfire and Function

Backfire

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

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

Nearby Words: backfired, backfiring

Function verb - To have a certain purpose.

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Backfire and function are semantically related. Sometimes you can use "Backfire" instead a verb "Function".

amount	backfire amount	function amount
way	backfire way	function way

This was also once mentioned as a reason for Harry's usage of revolvers rather then semi-automatic pistols, as the more complex firearms tend to jam, backfire, and otherwise fail to function properly in his hands.

Source: Magic Versus Science
He turns out to have no real talent for magic, but is revealed to function as one of these, greatly amplifying the magical power of any other wizard(s) he is in contact with or any spell he joins in casting (spells he tries to cast on his own are usually either weak or backfire-prone)

Source: Amplifier Artifact

Cite this Source

Function and Backfire. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 22, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/function

Backfire & Function. N.p., 2016. Web. 22 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/function>.

Function or Backfire. 2016. Accessed July 22, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/backfire/function.

Google Ngram Viewer shows how "backfire" and "function" have occurred on timeline