What does “Backseat driver” mean?
"Backseat driver" means someone who gives unwanted advice or criticism, especially while someone else is driving.
What context can I use the in?
Example
My mother-in-law is such a backseat driver, always telling me how to drive.
Example
I can't stand it when my friends become backseat drivers during road trips.
Example
My boss is a notorious backseat driver, always telling me how to do my job
Is “Backseat driver” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Backseat driver” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Backseat driver” effectively in context?
You can use "Backseat Driver" to describe someone who gives unwanted advice or criticism, especially while someone else is driving. It implies that the person is not actually driving but is still trying to control the situation. For example, if a friend is constantly telling you how to do something, you might say, 'Stop being a backseat driver!'
- 1Driving
My mother-in-law is such a backseat driver, always telling me how to drive.
- 2Road trips
I can't stand it when my friends become backseat drivers during road trips.
- 3Work
My boss is a notorious backseat driver, always telling me how to do my job.
Similar phrases to “Backseat driver”:
Someone who criticizes or second-guesses decisions or actions after the fact
Example
Don't be a Monday morning quarterback and tell me what I should have done.
Know-it-all
Someone who acts as if they know everything and constantly offers unsolicited advice
Example
She's such a know-it-all, always telling everyone what to do.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Backseat driver” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Backseat Driver" is unknown.
Is “Backseat driver” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Backseat Driver" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone who is overly critical or controlling, especially in situations where they have no authority or expertise.
What tone does “Backseat driver” have?
"Backseat Driver" conveys a tone of annoyance or frustration. It's often used to express irritation towards someone who is interfering or trying to control a situation they have no right to.
Can “Backseat driver” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Backseat Driver" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She's such a backseat driver, always criticizing my decisions.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stop being a "backseat driver"!' to imply that someone is being overly critical or controlling.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- meddler
- busybody
- interferer
- nag
- control freak
Antonyms
- easygoing
- non-interfering
- laid-back
- supportive
- hands-off
