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UKbe on one's back
/biː ˌɒn wˈɒnz bˈak/
/biː ˌɑːn wˈʌnz bˈæk/to be on one's back
[PHRASE]1
to force someone do something that is against their will or by putting a lot of pressure on them
![to [be] on {one's} back definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/42578/original/ "to [be] on {one's} back definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "be on one's back" and when to use it?
The phrase "be on one's back" originated from the early 19th century and has its roots in the literal sense of someone physically being on another person's back. It evolved into a figurative expression to describe the experience of constant pressure, criticism, or demands from someone else. This expression can be applied in personal relationships, work environments, or any situation where someone feels overwhelmed by constant expectations or obligations.
Examples
1. This has been on my back burner to read for years.
2. She's on my back again about those sales figures - I just haven't had a moment to do them.
3. What was on my back!
4. But they have another trick, too, they’re lighter on their stomachs than they are on their back.
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