A1preposition 1K

Behind

UK /["/bɪˈhaɪnd/"]/ US /["/bɪˈhaɪnd/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

at or towards the back of somebody/something, and often hidden by it or them

Listen to definition

In simple words: At the back of something.

Examples

• The cat is hiding behind the curtain.
• I parked my car behind the supermarket.
• There is a secret door behind the bookshelf.
• She always feels like she is behind her classmates in school.
• The team was behind in the game but made a comeback.

Usage notes

Use 'behind' to describe location or position. It's neutral and suitable for most contexts, but avoid using it in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

preposition + object

Memory hint

Think of 'behind' as being 'behind the scenes' — out of sight.

Collocations

• behind the scenes
• behind closed doors
• fall behind

Synonyms

• at the back of
• in the rear of
• after

Antonyms

• in front of
• ahead

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'behind' with 'in front of'
• Using 'behind' without a noun after it
• Misplacing 'behind' in a sentence (e.g., 'I am behind the door' instead of 'Behind the door, I am')