Meaning & Definition of word "Backslide"

Backslide

/ˈbækˌslaɪd/

1. an instance of reverting to a previous, often less desirable, state.
- Example: His backslide into procrastination was disappointing after weeks of productivity.
2. a deterioration in moral or personal standards.
- Example: The organization was concerned about the backslide in community values.

1. to revert to a previous, often less developed or less moral, state or condition.
- Example: After several months of improvement, he began to backslide into his old habits.
2. to fall back into previous undesirable patterns, particularly in behavior or progress.
- Example: Despite her efforts to stay sober, she found herself backsliding during stressful times.
3. to regress in progress or development, especially in a skill or area of knowledge.
- Example: If you don’t practice regularly, you might backslide in your language learning.

The term 'backslide' is formed from 'back', meaning to revert, and 'slide', implying a movement or fall.

backslide into old habits:

To revert to previous, possibly negative behaviors.

backslide on a commitment:

To fail to uphold a vow or promise made earlier.

regression:

A return to a previous state, often one that is less developed.

relapse:

To worsen after a period of improvement, often used in contexts such as addiction.

Meaning: To fall back into bad habits or behavior.

Example Sentence: He promised to quit smoking, but he totally backslid last weekend.

Meaning: To give up progress made and return to old ways.

Example Sentence: After getting fit, she backslid hard during the holidays.