Fixed expressions
Idioms
English fixed expressions — phrases whose meaning isn't obvious from the individual words. Each entry shows the meaning, an example sentence, and its register.
Idioms containing back, including its inflections. Clear word filter
back to basics
CEFR B1returning to the simple, fundamental principles of an activity
(take) a step back/further
CEFR B2to pause and reconsider a situation (step back), or develop an idea or action beyond its current point (step further)
at the back of one's mind
CEFR B2a thought or worry that you are vaguely aware of but not focusing on
back to square one
CEFR B2to return to the beginning of a task after an attempt has failed
back to the drawing board
CEFR B2to start planning or designing again after an idea or attempt has failed
break the back of
CEFR B2to get past the main obstacle so that the remaining work becomes easier
cast one's mind back
CEFR B2to think about something that happened in the past
stab someone in the back
CEFR B2to betray someone secretly
take a back seat
CEFR B2to accept a less active or less important role and let others lead
the straw that broke the camel's back
CEFR B2the final small addition that makes a situation unbearable