Object

• bit: Tends to backfire a bit that one with the spelling mistakes old chap.

• tactic: Six minutes were added to the match and the Rams time wasting tactics backfired as the home side drew level in added time.

• time: Unfortunately it backfired big time - instead of spending more time with Emma, Mom's answer was to send her to a counselor!

• move: Their move backfired as the media covered the outrageous scene of William Frazer being arrested and imprisoned while the terrorists were wined and dined.

• strategy: Or your spouse each year for at those agencies the strategy backfired.

Preposition: on

• group: What is often underestimated is how these terror websites actually backfire on the terrorist groups.

Modifying Another Word

• spectacularly: Sadly, major design faults on several of the products have caused the plan to backfire more spectacularly than a fleet of Ukrainian taxis.

• badly: A decision that was to backfire badly on him.

• seriously: The actions of those attacking Lebanon will seriously backfire.

• sometimes: Trying to be in control can sometimes backfire - you can lose what you might have gained.

Used with why or when

• when: But her plan backfires when Sam decides to move out so Sarah can have her own room.

Preposition: in

• way: Rachel: I've got a feeling this one is going to backfire in a big way, Marlene.