backfire

/bˈækfa‍ɪ‍ə/

/ˈbækˌfaɪɹ/

to backfire

MAIN VERB

to have a result contrary to what one desired

synonyms : backlash

in a sensitive manner

set a controlled fire to halt an advancing forest to prairie fire

emit a loud noise as a result of undergoing a backfire

Backfire

a miscalculation that recoils on its maker

synonyms : boomerang

a loud noise made by the explosion of fuel in the manifold or exhaust of an internal combustion engine

the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired

synonyms : blowback

a fire that is set intentionally in order to slow an approaching forest fire or grassfire by clearing a burned area in its path

Examples

1. What do you care if this plan backfires?

2. You'll see how that backfires on you Martin.

3. The plan backfired.

4. Ultimately the plan completely backfired.