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to backfire
01
to have a result contrary to what one desired or intended
Intransitive
02
to intentionally start a small fire in order to control or prevent the spread of a larger fire
Intransitive
03
(of a vehicle or its engine) to experience an explosion in the engine or exhaust system due to improper timing, causing a loud noise or malfunction
Intransitive
Backfire
01
a miscalculation that recoils on its maker
02
a loud, sudden explosion of unburned fuel in the engine or exhaust system
03
the backward escape of gases and unburned gunpowder after a gun is fired
04
a fire that is set intentionally in order to slow an approaching forest fire or grassfire by clearing a burned area in its path
back
fire
backfire
v
Example
Trying to gain popularity, the politician's controversial statement backfired, causing a public outcry.
The company's decision to cut costs unexpectedly backfired, leading to a decline in product quality.
The attempt to speed up the project by cutting corners backfired, resulting in delays and errors.
The strategy to increase sales by raising prices backfired as customers turned to cheaper alternatives.
His attempt to prank his friend backfired when she turned the tables on him.
