Backpaddle vs. Backpedal

Backpaddleverb

To paddle backwards.

Backpedalverb

(intransitive) To pedal backwards on a bicycle.

Backpedalverb

(intransitive) To step backwards.

‘The player had to backpedal before catching the ball.’;

Backpedalverb

To distance oneself from an earlier claim or statement; back off from an idea.

‘Though initially adopting a hard-line stance, the politician soon started to backpedal.’;

Backpedalverb

pedal backwards, as on a bicycle.

Backpedalverb

step backwards, in boxing.

Backpedalverb

modify one' opinion, usually by making it less strong or adding qualifications.

Backpedalverb

pedal backwards on a bicycle

Backpedalverb

step backwards, in boxing

Backpedalverb

modify one' opinion, make it less strong