backward-looking

adjective

Definition of backward-lookingnext
as in nostalgic

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backward-looking That means by the time an indictment is returned, the factual narrative typically reflects a backward-looking account of conduct that may stretch over a decade. — Andrew S. Boutros, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026 As a result, Moyn says, the country’s fate and character are being determined not by forward-looking people in their youth or their prime but by backward-looking ones in the final third of their lives. — Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 12 June 2026 This backward-looking approach fails entirely against novel attack vectors like synthetic identity creation and deepfake social engineering. — Ethan Stone, USA Today, 11 May 2026 By integrating the timeless framework of structured planning principles with the speed of AI, companies can finally escape the endless cycle of backward-looking reporting. — Tom Strohl, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for backward-looking
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backward-looking
  1. nostalgic
  2. retrospective
  3. introspective
  4. philosophical
  5. analytic
Adjective
  • Amid the allure of international jet-setters, luxury aficionados, art enthusiasts, and avant-garde travelers, five-star Hôtel Lou Pinet offers a serene retreat that captures nostalgic charm and the essence of bohemian chic.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • This nostalgic tradition, which calls for a bit of patience, belongs on every old-fashioned summer bucket list.
    — Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 4 July 2026
Definition of nostalgic
Adjective
  • Many are free to the public, and the celebration will continue after the festival with a five-week retrospective screening series.
    — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 2 July 2026
  • The exhibition also included a retrospective display of eight landmark creations released over the brand’s three decades, highlighting the evolution of Roberto Coin's design language.
    — Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Definition of retrospective
Adjective
  • That seems to have helped inspire the introspective, memoiristic aspects of this album.
    — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 3 July 2026
  • Simón’s new film — introspective, often visually breath-stopping, and lensed with glittering coastal beauty by cinematographer Hélène Louvart — premiered at Cannes 2025 in competition, went on to play at myriad festivals, and is only now opening in the United States from Janus Films.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 24 June 2026
Definition of introspective
Adjective
  • But the sections that can be read between gaps where the surface is lost point to a philosophical treatise on ethics, arts and human nature.
    — Leslie Katz, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • In the end, there remain some really stark philosophical divides on the court.
    — John E. Jones III, The Conversation, 1 July 2026
Definition of philosophical
Adjective
  • The key is to partner with AI, leveraging its speed and analytical power while focusing on uniquely human skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking.
    — William Arruda, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
  • Later, Anna needed to change perspective from an analytical view as a writer to an emotional approach as an actress to become the main character.
    — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 3 July 2026
Definition of analytic

Browse Nearby Words

backward
backward-looking
backwash
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Cite this Entry

“Backward-looking.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backward-looking. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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