backwardness

/'bækwədnis/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: 1. The state or condition of being backward: This refers to a lack of normal or expected progress, development, or advancement, especially in intellectual, social, or economic contexts. 2. Reluctance or hesitation: A state of being unwilling or hesitant to act or proceed.

Examples of Usage
  • The report highlighted the economic backwardness of the rural regions compared to the cities.
  • Educational backwardness in some districts is a major concern for policymakers.
  • Her backwardness in speaking up during meetings was often mistaken for a lack of ideas.
Advanced Usage
  • "Cultural backwardness": A term (often considered pejorative) used to describe a perceived lack of cultural development or modernity according to a specific standard.
    • The colonial narrative often justified rule by citing the alleged cultural backwardness of the indigenous population.
  • "Technological backwardness": The state of lagging behind in technological adoption or innovation.
    • The country's technological backwardness became a significant obstacle to industrial growth.
Variants and Related Words
  • Backward (adjective): Directed behind or toward the rear; reluctant; less advanced in development.
    • a backward glance; a backward child
  • Backwardly (adverb): In a backward manner.
    • He moved backwardly away from the edge.
Synonyms
  • Underdevelopment: The state of not being fully or normally developed.
  • Retardation: Delayed or slowed development, especially mental development. (Note: This term is now often considered offensive when applied to people.)
  • Hesitancy: The quality or state of being hesitant.
  • Reluctance: Unwillingness or disinclination to do something.
Antonyms
  • Advancement: The process of promoting a cause or plan; the act of moving forward.
  • Progress: Forward or onward movement toward a destination or goal.
  • Development: The process of growing or causing something to grow or become more advanced.
  • Sophistication: The quality of being sophisticated, complex, or developed.
Related Idioms and Phrases
  • "To be behind the times": To be old-fashioned or not aware of or using the latest ideas or techniques. This is a common phrase expressing a concept similar to backwardness.
    • Their manufacturing processes are behind the times.
Noun
  1. lack of normal development of intellectual capacities

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