WordGarden.iofightback
Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈaɪtbæk/
US
- /fˈaɪtbæk/
Meanings
Noun
a renewed effort to resist or reverse an attack, criticism, decline, or setback
a comeback in a game or contest after falling behind
Beyond the definition
A "fightback" is a strong effort to push back after trouble has already started. It can be a response to an attack, a bad period, or unfair treatment. Think of a small town coming together after a serious flood, or a struggling company trying to win customers back. You might hear about a "fightback against rising crime" or a "consumer fightback against price increases." It is not just a fight; it is a move to resist and turn things around.
The term often carries an underdog feeling. It suggests that someone is standing up for themselves or for others against a stronger force. A successful fightback is not guaranteed, but it shows determination and courage.
"Fightback" describes a determined effort to resist or reverse a bad situation, usually one that is already causing harm. It's more than just reacting; it suggests an active response to push back and try to change the situation. For example: "There was a strong fightback from environmental groups after the government announced plans to build a new highway through the forest."
The word suggests a situation where someone or something is under pressure—facing an attack, experiencing a decline in fortune, or being subjected to unfair treatment. The "fightback" is the attempt to regain lost ground, defend against further harm, and ultimately turn things around.
You'll often see "fightback" used in contexts involving political movements, economic challenges, or social issues. A union might organize a fightback against wage cuts, or a community might launch a fightback against gentrification. It can also be used more broadly to describe any determined effort to overcome obstacles. "The team mounted a spirited fightback in the second half of the game" means they rallied and tried hard to win despite being behind.
Unlike simply "fighting," a "fightback" emphasizes reclaiming something that has been lost or threatened. It's about resilience, determination, and refusing to be defeated. So when you hear about a "fightback," picture a determined group standing their ground and pushing back against the tide.
Examples
- 1
Sports comeback
After being 2-0 down, the team launched a fightback in the second half.
- 2
Business competition
The company is planning a fightback after losing customers to cheaper rivals.
- 3
Public services
Local residents organized a fightback against the new cuts to bus services.
- Patternfightback against + change/policy
organized resistance to it
- 4
Election politics
The party hopes its new leader can lead a fightback before the next election.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- pushback
- retaliation
- rally
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- launch a fightback
- mount a fightback
- political fightback
- late fightback
Word family
- fight back
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- fightback