GETTING BEHIND Meaning and
Definition
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Getting behind is a phrasal verb commonly used to describe a situation where someone falls behind or fails to keep up with a particular task, obligation, or schedule. It refers to a state of being late or delayed in meeting deadlines, expectations, or commitments, causing the person to be in a position of disadvantage or struggling to catch up.
In various contexts, getting behind can refer to academic work, work assignments, projects, or even financial responsibilities. For instance, a student who is overwhelmed with coursework and fails to complete assignments on time can be said to be getting behind in their studies. Similarly, an employee who is unable to meet deadlines or accomplish their assigned tasks can be described as getting behind at work.
This phrase can also be used in reference to financial matters, where an individual or organization may struggle to make necessary payments or fulfill financial obligations, causing them to fall behind in their financial commitments or accumulate debt.
Overall, getting behind conveys a sense of lagging, inability, or failure to keep pace with the required progress or expected standards. It implies the need to catch up, regain lost ground, or take action to meet the set targets or requirements.
Common Misspellings for GETTING BEHIND
- getting behiod
- getting behint
- getting behinl
- gettingbeehind
- g etting behind
- ge tting behind
- get ting behind
- gett ing behind
- getti ng behind
- gettin g behind
- getting b ehind
- getting be hind
- getting beh ind
- getting behi nd
- getting behin d
Etymology of GETTING BEHIND
The phrase "getting behind" has a literal and figurative meaning.
Literally, "getting behind" means moving to the rear or putting oneself in a position or place that is farther back. This usage dates back to the 14th century, derived from the Old English word "bihindan" which means "at the back" or "in the rear".
Figuratively, "getting behind" means being in a situation where one is unable to keep up or support something or someone. This meaning likely stems from the literal usage, suggesting that when one falls behind physically, they also fall back in terms of progress or support. However, the exact etymology for this figurative sense is not explicitly documented. Nonetheless, it has been in use since at least the 19th century.
