take a back seat
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Definition & Meaning of "[take] a back seat"

to take a back seat
01

to be placed in a less important or weaker position compared to that of someone else

to [take] a back seat definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "take a back seat" and when to use it?

The idiom "take a back seat" is thought to have originated in the mid-19th century from stagecoach travel, in reference to the seats in a stagecoach. The most desirable seats were the ones in the front, which allowed passengers to see the road ahead and have a better view of the scenery. The seats in the back were less desirable, as passengers had to endure a bumpy ride and were unable to see as well. Over time, the idiom came to be used figuratively to mean to be placed in a less important or weaker position compared to someone else.

02

to stop doing something, particularly when there is no hope of success

example
Example
examples
With the advent of digital photography, film photography has taken a back seat in the photography industry.
I’ll be happy to take a back seat when Robin takes over.
After years of being the star player, the veteran athlete has taken a back seat to the younger players on the team.
I took a back seat during the presentation because I knew you could handle it.
When her husband was elected mayor, the former city councilwoman took a back seat in local politics.
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