What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backward
Example
He took a step backward when he realized he was going the wrong way. [backward: adjective]
Example
The company's decision to use outdated technology is a backward move. [backward: noun]
retrograde
Example
The country's economy is in a retrograde state, with decreasing GDP and rising unemployment. [retrograde: adjective]
Example
She refuses to adapt to new technology and has a retrograde mindset. [retrograde: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Backward is more commonly used than retrograde in everyday language. Backward is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while retrograde is less common and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backward and retrograde?
While backwards is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, retrograde is more formal and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
