How to Pronounce Backslide

To pronounce "backslide", say BACKSL-id-e — 3 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

backslide

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Accent

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Syllables

Letters

BACKSL-id-e

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"backslide" has 3 syllables: backsl-id-e. It rhymes with abide and stride, if that helps it stick.

noun

A backward regression; a reverting back to a worse state.
A dance move in which the feet are alternately slid back and the heels lifted, giving the illusion of walking forwards while actually moving backwards; later popularly called the moonwalk.

verb

To regress; to slip backwards or revert to a previous, worse state.
“He felt better for a little while, before his condition started to backslide.”
To shirk responsibility; to renege on one's obligations or commitments.
“Rich countries are backsliding on their commitment to agree to new WTO measures to help people in poor countries gain access to affordable medicines. — Oxfam press release, 24 June 2002”

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

How many syllables are in "backslide"?▾

"Backslide" has 3 syllables: backsl · id · e.

What does "backslide" mean?▾

Backslide: A backward regression; a reverting back to a worse state.

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