The phrase "goes backwards" comprises three phonemes: /g/ /əʊ/ /z/ /ˈbæk.wədz/. The IPA phonetic transcription for "goes" is /ɡəʊz/ where 'g' represents the voiced velar plosive /ɡ/, whereas 'oe' corresponds to the diphthong /əʊ/. The 's' in "goes" indicates the voiced alveolar sibilant /z/. Finally, in "backwards," the sound 'b' represents the voiced bilabial plosive /b/, and the 'w' refers to the voiced labio-velar approximant /w/. 'A' in "back" signifies the voiced velar fricative /k/, and 's' in "wards" denotes the voiced alveolar fricative /z/.
The phrase "goes backwards" refers to a motion or progress that is directed in the opposite direction of what is expected or desired, resulting in regression or a decline in state or condition. It signifies a reversal in movement, development, or achievement, which can occur on a personal, societal, or conceptual level.
In a literal sense, "goes backwards" can describe physical movement wherein a person or object retreats or moves in the opposite direction to the intended destination. This can be seen as an action that takes the individual away from progress or towards an earlier point in time or space.
Metaphorically, "goes backwards" characterizes a deterioration in terms of personal growth, achievement, or development. It suggests a relapse or retrogression from a previously attained state of success, competence, or maturity.
On a broader scale, the phrase can be attributed to societal or organizational contexts where there is a decline in efforts, policies, or advancements. This decline may stem from the negative impact of specific actions, regressive policies, or external factors that hinder progress and result in a setback rather than forward movement.
Conceptually, "goes backwards" can illustrate the reversal of ideas, ideologies, or beliefs, wherein a society, community, or intellectual discourse reverts to outdated or discredited notions. This may hinder the evolution or understanding of concepts, leading to a lack of progress and innovation.
Overall, "goes backwards" embodies the notion of moving in the opposite direction, marking a decline, regression, or the undoing of progress at various levels.
The phrase goes backwards is not a word, but rather a combination of words. Therefore, it does not have an etymology. However, the word backwards itself does have an etymology. The word backwards is formed by adding the suffix -wards to the word backward. The word backward originated from the Old English word bæcweard which combines bæc meaning back and weard meaning toward. Over time, bæcweard transformed into backward, and with the addition of the suffix -s, it became backwards.