# blowback

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/blowback
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the negative reaction or consequences that happen after you do something, especially something that was meant to be helpful or positive.

For teachers: the unintended negative consequences or adverse public reaction resulting from a specific action or policy. Often used in political or social contexts to describe the backlash against a decision.

## Examples

- The company faced blowback after raising prices so much.
- The government's decision to close the border led to significant blowback from local business owners who rely on cross-border trade.
- While the initial policy was intended to streamline bureaucracy, the resulting blowback from the public highlighted a deep-seated distrust of centralized administrative power.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.