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behind
/bɪˈhaɪnd/
in the rear or at the back of
She stood behind the counter to serve customers.
She positioned herself at the back of the counter to assist customers.
general
In or toward the back or rear of something or someone.
The dog ran behind the fence.
The dog ran to the back of the fence.
Can refer to physical position or abstract concepts like support or delay.
general
Supporting or in favor of someone or something.
The team has strong backing behind them.
The team has significant support from their backers.
Often used metaphorically to indicate support or endorsement.
general
Late or delayed in progress or development.
We are behind schedule with the project.
We are delayed in completing the project.
Used to indicate a delay or lag in time or progress.
Collocations
behind the scenesin a hidden or private area, often where preparations or work is donebehind scheduledelayed or running latebehind the wheeldriving a vehicle
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Positional vs. Metaphorical Use
Remember that 'behind' can describe physical position (e.g., 'behind the door') or abstract concepts (e.g., 'behind the project').
Gold Rule
Prepositional Use
When used as a preposition, it typically follows a noun or pronoun (e.g., 'The cat hid behind the couch').
Word Origin
Old English 'behindan', from 'be-' (by) + 'hindan' (hind, back part). Related to 'hind' (rear part).
Usage Notes
Can be used as a preposition, adverb, or adjective depending on context. Often used metaphorically to describe support, delay, or position.
Word Breakdown
be-
by or at
prefix-hind
back or rear
rootEnglish Dictionary