backfire
back
bæk
bāk
fire
faɪər
faiēr
British pronunciation
/bˈækfa‍ɪ‍ə/

Definition & Meaning of "backfire"in English

to backfire
01

to have a result contrary to what one desired or intended

Intransitive
to backfire definition and meaning
example
Examples
His attempt to prank his friend backfired when she turned the tables on him.
The company 's decision to cut costs unexpectedly backfired, leading to a decline in product quality.
02

to intentionally start a small fire in order to control or prevent the spread of a larger fire

Intransitive
example
Examples
The firefighters decided to backfire to contain the wildfire before it spread further.
In order to control the blaze, they backfired along the ridge to create a firebreak.
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
example
Examples
The old car backfired when I tried to start it this morning.
If the engine 's timing is off, it can easily backfire.
Backfire
01

an action or plan that produces the opposite effect or unintended negative consequences

example
Examples
The policy turned out to be a backfire for the government.
The marketing strategy became a backfire when sales dropped instead of rising.
02

a loud, sudden explosion of unburned fuel in the engine or exhaust system

What is a "backfire"?

A backfire is a situation where a vehicle's engine produces a loud popping or explosive sound, often due to a problem with the combustion process. This occurs when fuel ignites in the engine's exhaust system or outside the combustion chamber. Backfires can be caused by issues like incorrect timing, a dirty fuel system, or engine failures. While backfires can be alarming, they are usually not dangerous, but they may indicate the need for repairs or adjustments to the engine to prevent further problems.

example
Examples
The old car occasionally experienced a backfire when starting up.
She heard a backfire from the exhaust after accelerating.
03

the backward release of gases and unburned powder after firing a gun

example
Examples
The rifle 's backfire startled everyone at the shooting range.
Improperly loaded cartridges can cause a backfire.
04

a fire set intentionally to burn vegetation ahead of a wildfire, creating a barrier

example
Examples
Firefighters used a backfire to stop the wildfire from spreading.
Controlled backfires help protect towns from advancing flames.
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