backpedal

Verb

Meaning

modify one's opinion, make it less strong

step backwards, in boxing

pedal backwards on a bicycle

Source: WordNet

Synonyms

back reverse retreat withdraw pedal renounce relax retrograde retract accede recant backwater capitulate relent abandon

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Antonyms

attack bear fight accept weather agree

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Hypernyms

cycle step wheel bicycle pedal bike

Examples

Thus Parliament will not have to backpedal on its resolution of the same date because the grounds for it will be voided. Source: Internet

Two years ago, the Communist Party appeared to backpedal, allowing couples to have two children. Source: Internet

Well today the company seemed to backpedal somewhat from that objection and dire prognostication. Source: Internet

And I've been loving watching Oz try to backpedal what he said. Source: Internet

The World Health Organization recently issued a warning that there was “not enough evidence” to give people “risk-free certificates,” but hours later appeared to backpedal with a modified statement. Source: Internet

Close letter words and terms

backpat backpatch backpay backpedaler backpedaling backpeddle