Backpedal

To retreat from a position or commitment, particularly when faced with criticism or opposition. This term is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is reconsidering their stance on a particular issue or trying to mitigate the consequences of their previous statements or actions. Backpedaling can involve clarifying, softening, or completely reversing a prior position to avoid backlash or to appease critics.

Backpedal meaning with examples

• After receiving backlash for his comments on climate change, the politician decided to backpedal, stating that he had not meant to undermine the science behind global warming.
• The company's CEO had to backpedal on their proposed layoffs after employees protested, emphasizing instead their commitment to workforce stability.
• In her speech, she began to backpedal when questioned about her initial harsh views on immigration, suggesting a more compassionate approach instead.
• When the reporter confronted him with evidence of his earlier statements, he started to backpedal, trying to reframe his remarks as misunderstood.
• As the deadline approached, the team leader had to backpedal on their ambitious project timeline, acknowledging the unrealistic expectations set earlier.