Zoeken
when one's back is turned
01
used of a situation in which one is busy with something else or is not looking
![(when|while) {one's} [back] [is] turned definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44600/original/?type=jpeg "(when|while) {one's} [back] [is] turned definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "when one's back is turned" and when to use it?
The idiom "when one's back is turned" likely has its origin in the idea that when a person's back is turned, they are not able to see what is happening behind them. This lack of awareness can be exploited by others for various purposes, whether it is mischievous acts, pranks, or more serious actions. It is used to describe situations where something occurs or someone takes action when another person is not watching or aware of it.
Example
He managed to swap the real diamond with a fake one when the jeweler's back was turned.
The kids decided to sneak some cookies from the jar while their parents were in the other room.
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