ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bring up the rear

idiom
Meaning

To be last in a moving line of people, to walk or go behind others in a line.


Examples
SIMPLE

The youngest child always brings up the rear during our family walks.

CONTEXTUAL

As the group hiked up the steep mountain trail, the tired hiker decided to bring up the rear.

COMPLEX

While the experienced guides led the expedition through the dense forest, the photographer chose to bring up the rear to capture the scenery without being rushed.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bring a knife to a gunfight

    To enter into a confrontation or other challenging situation without being adequately equipped or prepared.

  2. 02

    bring a lump to someone's throat

    To engender a strong emotional reaction.

  3. 03

    bring back to life

    To return someone to a state of consciousness or living after a state of unconsciousness, death or near-death.

  4. 04

    bring down the curtain

    To bring something to an end.

  5. 05

    bring down the hammer

    To treat very harshly.

  6. 06

    bring down the house

    To garner enthusiastic or wild applause or laughter.

  7. 07

    bring forward

    To call up for consideration.

  8. 08

    bring home

    To earn (money).

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