A2noun 1K

Background

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈbækɡraʊnd/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈbækɡraʊnd/"]/

Meaning of Background

the details of a person’s family, education, experience, etc.

In simple words: The area behind the main part of something.

Background in a sentence

• The background of the painting is filled with beautiful colors.
• She comes from a wealthy background, which helped her education.
• In the background, you can see the mountains and trees.
• They discussed the background information before starting the project.
• He has a background in engineering and worked on many projects.

How to use Background

Used to refer to the setting or context in images, stories, or situations. Not typically used in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'back' sign guiding you to the 'ground' behind something.

Related words

Collocations with Background

• family
• broad
• different
• come from
• have
• be drawn from
• be in something
• check
• from a background
• with a background
• background in
• a range of backgrounds
• a variety of backgrounds
• general
• factual
• cultural
• describe
• explain
• give (somebody)
• briefing
• info
• information
• against the background
• background to
• background of
• black
• blue
• grey/​gray
• blend in with
• match
• colour/​color
• against a/​the background
• in the background
• on a/​the background
• blend into
• fade into
• melt into
• music
• noise
• radiation
• in the background

Synonyms for Background

• setting
• context
• surroundings
• environment
• scenery

Opposites of Background

• foreground
• front

Common mistakes with Background

• Confused with 'forefront' — they are opposite in meaning.
• Using 'background' as a verb incorrectly.
• Assuming it always refers to scenery; it can also mean context.

Frequently asked questions about Background

What does Background mean?

The area behind the main part of something.

What is the definition of Background?

the details of a person’s family, education, experience, etc.

How do you use Background in a sentence?

The background of the painting is filled with beautiful colors.

Can you give another example of Background?

She comes from a wealthy background, which helped her education.

What are synonyms for Background?

Common alternatives include setting, context, surroundings, environment, scenery.

What is the opposite of Background?

Opposite meanings include foreground, front.

What words go with Background?

It commonly pairs with family, broad, different, come from, have, be drawn from, be in something, check, from a background, with a background, background in, a range of backgrounds, a variety of backgrounds, general, factual, cultural, describe, explain, give (somebody), briefing, info, information, against the background, background to, background of, black, blue, grey/​gray, blend in with, match, colour/​color, against a/​the background, in the background, on a/​the background, blend into, fade into, melt into, music, noise, radiation, in the background.

What are common mistakes when using Background?

Confused with 'forefront' — they are opposite in meaning. Using 'background' as a verb incorrectly. Assuming it always refers to scenery; it can also mean context.

How do you pronounce Background?

US: /["/ˈbækɡraʊnd/"]/, UK: /["/ˈbækɡraʊnd/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Background?

Used to refer to the setting or context in images, stories, or situations. Not typically used in very formal writing.

What CEFR level is Background?

"Background" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.