The phrase "behind hand" means to be late or delayed in completing a task. Its spelling is in accordance with the IPA phonetic transcription, which represents standard British English pronunciation. "Behind" is pronounced as /bɪˈhaɪnd/ (bih-hynd), while "hand" is pronounced as /hænd/ (hand). The phrase is commonly used in informal situations and is easily understood across different English-speaking communities. If you're feeling behind hand in your work or studies, don't worry – with a little perseverance and determination, you'll catch up in no time!
The term "behind hand" is an idiomatic expression that refers to being late or delayed in completing a task, fulfilling a commitment, or meeting a deadline. It implies a situation where someone is not progressing or keeping up with anticipated progress. It is often used in the context of being behind schedule or lagging behind others in accomplishing a specific objective.
When someone is described as being behind hand, it suggests that they have fallen behind the expected or desired timeline. This could be due to various reasons such as poor planning, unexpected obstacles, lack of resources, or simply not allocating enough time to the task at hand. The phrase often carries a sense of disapproval or disappointment, as it highlights a failure to meet certain expectations.
For example, if a person is "behind hand" in completing a project, it means that they have not made sufficient progress according to the predetermined schedule. Similarly, if a company is "behind hand" in delivering a product, it indicates a delay in meeting customer demands or contractual obligations.
Overall, "behind hand" signifies being behind or delayed in some aspect, emphasizing that the person or entity in question has not kept pace with the expected or required progress.
• Backward; tardy.
• In arrears.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The phrase "behind hand" is believed to have originated in the late 16th century in England. The term "hand" was commonly used as a metaphorical expression for time or a point in time. "Behind hand" evolved as an idiomatic expression meaning to be late or delayed in completing a task or meeting an obligation. It is derived from the image of a person being slower or falling behind in a literal hand-to-hand race or a figurative race against time. Over time, "behind hand" has become a way to convey being behind schedule or falling short in some way.