Backsliding

/ˌbækˈslaɪdɪŋ/ noun, adjective

Definition

The act or habit of returning to worse behavior or conditions; or an adjective describing something characterized by regression or moral failure.

Etymology

Present participle and gerund of 'backslide,' functioning as both noun and adjective. It emphasizes the ongoing, habitual nature of the regression rather than a single event.

Kelly Says

The gerund form 'backsliding' is particularly powerful because it turns regression from a one-time event into an ongoing process—'occasional relapse' vs 'chronic backsliding' are totally different judgments.

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