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UKbehind one's back
/bɪhˌaɪnd wˈɒnz bˈak/
/bɪhˌaɪnd wˈʌnz bˈæk/behind one's back
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "behind one's back" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "behind one's back" is not attributed to a specific historical event or source but rather emerges from the metaphorical association of a person's back with their unawareness or lack of visibility. The phrase draws upon the idea that when someone's back is turned or facing away, they cannot see what is happening behind them. It is commonly employed when discussing interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, or social interactions. The phrase is used to convey instances where someone is being talked about, criticized, or undermined without their knowledge or presence.
Examples
1. When he realized that his so-called friend had been spreading rumors about him behind his back, he remembered the advice to never fear the enemy that attacks you but the fake friend that hugs you.
2. All they do instead is that they throw him down on the ground, and handcuff with his hands behind his back, a big no-no, if you're gonna handcuff deaf people.
3. Also, when you handcuff a deaf person's hands behind their back, if they grew up signing, if ASL is their language, you are taking their method of communication away from them.
4. And he was one of those guys that supported oralism and putting deaf kids in speech therapy, having their hands tied behind their back and, oh it's almost time?
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