Backward and Backwards

Backward

Backward adverb - At or to or toward the back or rear.
Usage example: tripped when he stepped backward

Backwards is a synonym for backward in approach topic. In some cases you can use "Backwards" instead the word "Backward" as an adverb or an adjective, when it comes to topics like precede, retrograde. popular alternative

Backwards

Backwards adverb - In a manner or order or direction the reverse of normal.

Backward is a synonym for backwards in approach topic. You can use "Backward" instead the word "Backwards" as an adverb or an adjective, if it concerns topics such as back, precede, retrograde, towards the rear. popular alternative

Nearby Words: back, backward
Cite this Source
Backwards and Backward. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 16, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/backward/backwards
Backward & Backwards. N.p., 2016. Web. 16 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/backward/backwards>.
Backwards or Backward. 2016. Accessed August 16, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/backward/backwards.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "backward" and "backwards" have occurred on timeline