What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
behind
Example
The cat is hiding behind the couch. [behind: preposition]
Example
He fell behind in the race and couldn't catch up. [behind: adverb]
back
Example
She sat at the back of the classroom. [back: noun]
Example
I want to go back to my hometown for the holidays. [back: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Back is more commonly used than behind in everyday language. Back is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while behind is more specific and often used to describe physical position or being in a lower position.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between behind and back?
While behind is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, back is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
