BEHIND BACK Meaning and
Definition
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"Behind someone's back" is an idiomatic expression that typically refers to talking about, criticizing, or betraying someone without their knowledge or in their absence, often with an intent to deceive or harm. This phrase implies actions carried out secretly or behind the person's back, implying a lack of honesty, openness, or loyalty. It signifies behavior that is usually considered dishonest, disloyal, or unethical, as it involves actions that would not be performed if the person were present.
It can also connote secrecy or deception in other contexts, such as when someone performs an action clandestinely or out of sight in order to gain an advantage or achieve a desired outcome without others' awareness or consent. The phrase generally conveys a negative connotation, emphasizing the negative consequences of actions performed without transparency or consideration for the person being deceived or harmed.
"Behind someone's back" can be used in various situations, such as gossiping about an individual's personal life or work, spreading false rumors, manipulating situations for personal gain, or undermining someone's reputation or position. This phrase serves as a reminder to act with integrity and respect for others by being open, honest, and forthright in our interactions, rather than engaging in deceptive or harmful behavior which may damage trust and relationships.
Common Misspellings for BEHIND BACK
- vehind back
- nehind back
- hehind back
- gehind back
- bwhind back
- bshind back
- bdhind back
- brhind back
- b4hind back
- b3hind back
- begind back
- bebind back
- benind back
- bejind back
- beuind back
- beyind back
- behund back
- behjnd back
- behknd back
- behond back
Etymology of BEHIND BACK
The phrase "behind back" is not a standalone word with a specific etymology; instead, it is a combination of two separate words: "behind" and "back".
The word "behind" has Old English origins and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "bihindan". It is a compound of "bi", meaning "by" or "near", and "hindan", meaning "from behind". Over time, this word evolved into "behind", retaining its basic meaning of being in a position at the rear or past a certain point.
The word "back" also has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "bakam". It refers to the rear or hind part of something. In various contexts, "back" can indicate the reverse side, the support structure, or the part of the body opposite to the front.
Idioms with the word BEHIND BACK
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behind back
To do something without someone's knowledge or approval.
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with one hand tied behind back
The phrase "with one hand tied behind back" is used to describe someone who is achieving something difficult or challenging with ease, skill, or without much effort. It suggests that the person is so talented or skilled that they could even accomplish the task with a handicap or disadvantage.
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go behind back
The idiom "go behind back" means to behave deceitfully or secretly by doing something without the knowledge or consent of someone else, especially someone who trusts you.
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could do with one arm tied behind back
The idiom "could do with one arm tied behind back" means that a task or challenge is so easy for someone that they could accomplish it even if they were hindered or handicapped in some way. It implies that the person is highly skilled or capable in a particular area.
