Definitions
- Describing a movement towards the back of something, such as a vehicle or building. - Referring to a position at the back of a group or formation. - Talking about a direction away from the front or leading edge of something.
- Referring to a direction opposite to the usual or expected one. - Describing a person who is slow to learn or understand new things. - Talking about a movement towards the back or rear of something.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a movement towards the back or rear of something.
- 2Both can be used to describe a position at the back of a group or formation.
- 3Both can be used to indicate a direction away from the front or leading edge of something.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Rearward is less commonly used than backward in everyday language.
- 2Direction: Rearward specifically refers to movement towards the back, while backward can refer to any direction opposite to the usual or expected one.
- 3Connotation: Rearward can imply a deliberate or strategic movement, while backward can have negative connotations of slowness or incompetence.
- 4Formality: Rearward is more formal than backward and is often used in military or technical contexts.
Remember this!
Rearward and backward are synonyms that describe a movement towards the back or rear of something. However, rearward is less common and more formal than backward, and specifically refers to movement towards the back. Backward can refer to any direction opposite to the usual or expected one and can have negative connotations of slowness or incompetence.
