Behind: A Comprehensive Guide

By Eudora Welty | Created on 2025-09-29 14:41:38

Written with a informative tone 📝 | Model: qwen2.5-coder:latest

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Welcome to the world of "behind," a versatile word that has numerous meanings and uses in English. This entry will delve into the different contexts and applications of "behind," offering you a deeper understanding of how this word operates.

Adverb or Adjective

The adverb or adjective form of "behind" is used to describe a location, time, or state that is in the past or not at the forefront. It can be used to show a difference between two things or people, indicating that one is lagging behind another.

Sense 1a: In a place or time that is being or has been departed from

This sense of "behind" indicates that something or someone is located in a position that is farther along than the starting point. It can also indicate that something is happening later than another event.

Example: The required work was behind, so now we're running late.

Sense 1b: At, to, or toward the back

This sense of "behind" indicates a physical location in relation to another object. It can also indicate that someone is facing away from another person or object.

Example: The cat hid behind the couch.

Preposition

The prepositional form of "behind" indicates a location, time, or state that is in the past or not at the forefront. It can be used to show a difference between two things or people, indicating that one is lagging behind another.

Sense 1a: At, to, or toward the back of

This sense of "behind" indicates a physical location in relation to another object. It can also indicate that someone is facing away from another person or object.

Example: The older students entered the room first with the younger students following behind them.

Sense 1b: Not up to the level of

This sense of "behind" indicates that something is not meeting expectations or standards. It can also indicate that someone or something is lagging behind others.

Example: Sales are behind those of last year.

Noun

The noun form of "behind" refers to a location, state, or situation that is in the past or not at the forefront. It can be used to describe a position or state that someone or something is in.

Sense 1: In the background of

This sense of "behind" indicates a physical location in relation to another object. It can also indicate that someone is facing away from another person or object.

Example:

The sun went behind a cloud.

kicked him in the behind.

Sense 2: In support of

This sense of "behind" indicates that someone or something is supporting another person, group, or cause. It can also indicate that someone is willing to defend or promote another person or thing.

Example: We're behind you all the way.

Etymology

The word "behind" comes from Old English, where it was used to describe a physical location in relation to another object. It was also used to indicate that something or someone was lagging behind another event or person.

Phrases Containing "behind"

Here are some common phrases containing the word "behind:

  • Behind bars
  • Behind closed doors
  • Behind enemy lines
  • Behind one's back
  • Behind the curve
  • Behind the eight ball
  • Behind the scenes
  • Behind the times
  • Behind the wheel

Related Words

Here are some related words to "behind:

  • Ahead of
  • Behind schedule
  • Behind closed doors
  • Behind enemy lines
  • Behind one's back
  • Behind the curve
  • Behind the eight ball
  • Behind the scenes
  • Behind the times
  • Behind the wheel

Example Sentences

Here are some example sentences using the word "behind:

  • The older students entered the room first with the younger students following behind them.
  • Sales are behind those of last year.
  • The sun went behind a cloud.
  • kicked him in the behind.

Popular Phrases

Here are some popular phrases using the word "behind:

  • Stand up for yourself
  • Don't let them get behind you
  • Get back on track
  • Stay ahead of the game
  • Don't fall behind

Conclusion

The word "behind" is a versatile and useful word in English. It can be used to describe a physical location, state, or situation that is in the past or not at the forefront. Whether you're talking about someone who is lagging behind another person, a location that is behind another object, or a situation that is behind expectations, "behind" has got your back.



Sources:
- [BEHIND Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster] (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind)
- [BEHIND Synonyms: 102 Similar and Opposite Words - Merriam-Webster] (https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/behind)
- [329 Synonyms & Antonyms for BEHIND | Thesaurus.com] (https://www.thesaurus.com/browse/behind)
- ["20/20: He's Right Behind You" Coming Soon To ABC, Hulu] (https://whatsondisneyplus.com/20-20-hes-right-behind-you-coming-soon-to-abc-hulu-hulu-on-disney/)
- [Behind the Wall documentary shows correctional officer trauma …] (https://www.corrections1.com/health-wellness/behind-the-wall-documentary-highlights-toll-of-prison-work-on-correctional-officers)
- [What Really Went On Behind Closed Doors At The World's …] (https://www.grunge.com/237866/what-really-went-on-behind-closed-doors-at-the-worlds-largest-asylum/)
- [The Abandoned Kings Park Psych Hospital Ruins Inside …] (https://www.untappedcities.com/the-abandoned-hospital-ruins-inside-nissequogue-river-state-park-on-long-island/)
- [Behind the Curtain: The most unprecedented presidency in 250 …] (https://www.axios.com/2025/09/23/trump-unprecedented-presidency-behind-the-curtain)
- [Inside the Abandoned Kings Park Psychiatric Center on Long Island] (https://www.untappedcities.com/abandoned-kings-park-psychiatric-center-long-island/)
- [Behind - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms | Vocabulary.com] (https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/behind)
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