Backsliders refers to individuals who have abandoned a previously held belief, commitment, or practice, particularly in a religious or moral context. They are people who have strayed from their former faith, principles, or goals, often returning to former undesirable habits or behaviors. The term carries a connotation of a weakening of resolve or a fall from grace. It implies a deviation from a path that was once firmly established and may suggest a loss of integrity or conviction. The act of backsliding involves a regression, moving backward instead of forward, and represents a departure from a perceived standard of behavior.
Backsliders meaning with examples
- The church elder worried about the increasing number of young people considered to be backsliders, drifting away from their religious upbringing and embracing secular lifestyles. He feared the core values of the community were being eroded by their influence, and he hoped they'd return. They were abandoning traditions.
- Despite the initial fervor, several members of the political movement were labeled as backsliders when they began to compromise on their core principles, supporting legislation that contradicted their initial promises. The public saw them as betraying their original commitment to the cause.
- After achieving sobriety, the recovering alcoholic faced a relapse and was considered a backslider, despite years of abstinence, and struggled with temptation. The support group tried to encourage him. This setback, sadly, highlighted the fragility of his recovery path.
- The athlete, once celebrated for his dedication, was viewed as a backslider after missing training sessions and failing to maintain his rigorous diet. His coach was very disappointed in him. His performance had declined.
- The student, initially diligent, was perceived as a backslider when he stopped attending classes, stopped completing assignments, and started failing his courses. His parents were concerned because they supported his efforts. His academic progress was hampered.