ENGLISH
REFERENCE

go behind someone's back

idiom
Meaning

To talk about someone or take action without their knowledge.


Examples
SIMPLE

He goes behind his manager's back to get what he wants.

CONTEXTUAL

I felt hurt when my friend went behind my back and told everyone my secret after promising to keep it quiet.

COMPLEX

The ambitious executive went behind the CEO's back to negotiate a private deal, risking his entire career for a chance at more power.

Last updated July 14, 2026