What does “Behind someone's back” mean?
"Behind someone's back" means to do something secretly or without someone's knowledge or approval.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She was talking about him behind his back.
Example
They made plans behind her back.
Example
He was spreading rumors behind their backs
Is “Behind someone's back” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Behind someone's back” 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 “Behind someone's back” effectively in context?
You can use "Behind someone's back" to describe actions that are done secretly or without someone's knowledge or approval. It implies a sense of betrayal or dishonesty. For example, if someone is talking about another person when they're not present, you might say, 'She was talking about him "behind his back".'
- 1Gossip
She was talking about him behind his back.
- 2Deception
They made plans behind her back.
- 3Betrayal
He was spreading rumors behind their backs.
Similar phrases to “Behind someone's back”:
Two-faced
To act one way in front of someone and another way when they're not around
Example
She's so two-faced, always nice to your face but talks behind your back.
To betray someone's trust or loyalty, especially by spreading rumors or secrets
Example
He's known for backstabbing his friends and spreading false information.
Double-cross
To deceive or betray someone, often after gaining their trust
Example
He double-crossed his business partner and stole their clients.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Behind someone's back” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Behind someone's back" is unknown.
Is “Behind someone's back” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Behind someone's back" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe secretive or dishonest behavior.
What tone does “Behind someone's back” have?
"Behind someone's back" conveys a tone of betrayal or dishonesty. It's often used to express disapproval or to highlight the negative actions of someone who is being deceitful.
Can “Behind someone's back” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Behind someone's back" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes secretive behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions 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 was spreading rumors "behind their backs".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's always talking "behind people's backs"!' to imply disapproval of someone's gossiping habits.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- secretly
- covertly
- sneakily
- stealthily
- privately
- behind closed doors
- in secret
- without someone's knowledge
Antonyms
- openly
- honesty
- transparently
- aboveboard
- with someone's knowledge
- in front of someone
- face-to-face
