What does “On the Back Foot” mean?

"On the Back Foot" means being in a defensive or disadvantageous position.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The team was on the back foot for most of the game.

Example

After losing their star player, they were on the back foot in the tournament.

Example

The company found itself on the back foot after a series of bad decisions

Is “On the Back Foot” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“On the Back Foot” 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 “On the Back Foot” effectively in context?

You can use "On the Back Foot" to describe a situation where someone or something is in a defensive or disadvantageous position. It implies that the person or entity is facing challenges or setbacks and is struggling to regain control or momentum. For example, if a team is losing a game and constantly defending against the opponent's attacks, you might say, 'The team was "on the back foot" for most of the game.'

1Sports
After losing their star player, they were on the back foot in the tournament.
2Business
The company found itself on the back foot after a series of bad decisions.
3General
The team was on the back foot for most of the game.

Similar phrases to “On the Back Foot”:

Behind the eight ball

In a difficult or disadvantageous position

Example

After a series of setbacks, the company found themselves behind the eight ball.

Playing catch-up

Trying to recover from a disadvantageous position

Example

After a slow start, the team was playing catch-up for the rest of the game.

Under the cosh

Under pressure or in a difficult situation

Example

The company was under the cosh due to financial difficulties.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “On the Back Foot” come from?

The origin of the phrase "On the Back Foot" is unknown.

Is “On the Back Foot” common in everyday conversation?

"On the Back Foot" is a relatively common expression in everyday conversation, especially in sports and business contexts. People often use it to describe situations where someone or something is at a disadvantage or facing difficulties.

What tone does “On the Back Foot” have?

"On the Back Foot" conveys a tone of adversity and struggle. It suggests that the person or entity is facing challenges and is in a defensive position, trying to overcome obstacles and regain control.

Can “On the Back Foot” be used in informal and formal settings?

"On the Back Foot" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various situations, including casual conversations, professional discussions, and written communication.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

"On the Back Foot" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The team found themselves "on the back foot" after conceding an early goal.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'We're "on the back foot" here!' to imply being in a defensive or disadvantageous position.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

at a disadvantage
in a defensive position
on the defensive
in a tough spot
in a tight corner

Antonyms

in the driver's seat
in control
on the offensive
in a favorable position
in the lead