The term backward-looking is a commonly used word in the English language, but not everyone may be familiar with its definition and meaning. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of backward-looking, including its definition, origin, and associations.
Definitions
The term backward-looking is an adjective that describes someone or something that is focused on the past. It can also refer to a person who is resistant to change and prefers to stick to traditions and old ways of doing things.
Origin
The word backward-looking is a combination of two root words – backward and looking. The word backward comes from the Old English word ‘bæcweard,’ which means ‘toward the back.’ The word looking comes from the Old English word ‘lōcian,’ which means ‘to see, to look.’.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, backward-looking means ‘directed towards or concerned with the past; retrospective.’ Merriam-Webster defines it as ‘tending to look to the past rather than the future.’.
Associations
The term backward-looking is often associated with conservatism, nostalgia, and resistance to change. It can also be associated with a lack of innovation and progress.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of backward-looking include nostalgic, traditional, conservative, old-fashioned, and regressive.
Antonyms
Antonyms of backward-looking include forward-thinking, progressive, innovative, modern, and futuristic.
The same root words
Other words that share the same root words as backward-looking include backwardness, backwardly, and backwardnesses.
Example Sentences
- The company’s backward-looking approach to technology has left them behind their competitors.
- The politician’s backward-looking policies were not well-received by the younger generation.
- The museum’s exhibition was a backward-looking tribute to the history of the city.
- The teacher encouraged her students to be forward-thinking and not to be too backward-looking.
- The author’s latest book was a departure from his usual backward-looking themes.