backward · adverb /ˈbæk.wərd/
backward
B1 toward the direction behind you
Dictionary examples:
I walked backward toward the door.
He took a step backward to allow her to pass.
Learner example:
There's a big park near the place I live, and I think I'll go in-line skating there, rolling forward, c[rui]sing backward and speeding up, enjoying the exciting moment. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Chinese)
bend over backwards
C1 to try very hard to do something
Dictionary example:
They bent over backwards to make us feel at home.
Learner example:
They won't bend over backwards to look for a quick solution, but sooner or latter the matter will be solved. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Spanish)
backward · adjective always before noun /ˈbæk.wərd/
backward
C2 less developed or slower to develop than normal
Dictionary example:
The state needs to reform its backward election laws.
Learner example:
No longer a remote, backward, unimportant country, it became a force to be reckoned with in Europe. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Russian)
