Basic Details
Word: Backlash
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A strong negative reaction or criticism to something that has happened.
Synonyms: Repercussion, reaction, counterblast
Antonyms: Approval, agreement, support
Idioms and Phrases
- Out of the frying pan and into the fire: Moving from a bad situation to a worse one. Example: "By ignoring the critics, he jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire, facing even more backlash."
- Stirring the pot: Causing trouble or controversy. Example: "Her comments on social media were just stirring the pot, leading to tremendous backlash from her followers."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The new policy faced significant backlash from the community, who felt their voices were not heard.
Example 2: After the controversial decision, the company received a wave of backlash on social media.
Example 3: The films director expected some backlash for his bold creative choices, but he believed in his vision.
Fun Fact
The term "backlash" originally comes from mechanics, referring to the backward movement of a part after it has been pushed, reflecting the idea of a strong reaction in social contexts.
Famous Quote
"I can't control what people think about me. I can only control the backlash that I receive." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "backlash" mean?
a) A supportive response
b) A strong negative reaction
c) A type of dance
d) A kind of weather
Answer: b) A strong negative reaction
2. Which of these is a synonym of "backlash"?
a) Approval
b) Repercussion
c) Agreement
d) Consent
Answer: b) Repercussion
3. Which sentence uses "backlash" correctly?
a) The cat received harsh backlash for its behaviour.
b) The children received backlash for their loud play.
c) The politician faced backlash from voters after his comments.
d) The cupcake was decorated with backlash.
Answer: c) The politician faced backlash from voters after his comments.
4. Which idiom means to cause trouble or controversy?
a) Out of the frying pan and into the fire
b) Stirring the pot
c) Between a rock and a hard place
d) As cool as a cucumber
Answer: b) Stirring the pot
5. What is the opposite of "backlash"?
a) Criticism
b) Support
c) Debate
d) Reaction
Answer: b) Support
