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to see the back of sb/sth
01
to finally manage to get rid of someone or something
![to [see] the (back|last) of {sb/sth} definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44744/original/?type=jpeg "to [see] the (back|last) of {sb/sth} definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "see the back of someone or something" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "see the back of someone or something" is not definitively documented, but it likely stems from the idea that when someone leaves or departs, one can see their back as they walk away. In this context, seeing the back of someone or something signifies the end of their presence or influence. It is typically used in informal conversations and less formal writing to express relief or joy when parting ways with a person, situation, or thing that has been causing difficulties, annoyance, or discomfort.
Example
Tom had struggled with his old, unreliable car for years, so he was pleased to see the back of it when he finally bought a new one.
When he left the company, we were relieved to see the last of him.
She moved to a different city, so we've probably seen the last of our noisy neighbor.
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