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to cover one's back
01
to take action in order to save a person from being criticized, punished, blamed, etc.
![to [cover] {one's} back definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/27405/original/?type=jpeg "to [cover] {one's} back definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "cover one's back" and when to use it?
The idiom "cover one's back" is related to the idea of providing protection for oneself, particularly in situations where one may face criticism, blame, or consequences. It likely evolved from the more common phrase "cover one's ass" (CYA), which has its origins in American English in the mid-20th century and is often used in a similar sense to describe actions taken by individuals or organizations to safeguard themselves from potential criticism, blame, or adverse consequences.
Example
When facing a challenging situation, it's natural to want to cover your back and ensure you are protected.
In a high-stakes project, it's essential to cover your back by keeping a record of all decisions and communications.
The lawyer advised his client to cover their back by obtaining insurance in case of a legal dispute.
