Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “Behind one’s back” refers to doing something secretly or deceitfully without someone’s knowledge, especially when it may harm or betray them.
Hindi Equivalent:
“छिपकर कुछ करना”
Literal Meaning: “To do something secretly”
Detailed Explanation
This expression highlights:
- Secrecy: Actions taken without the person’s awareness
- Deceit: Often involves betrayal or dishonesty
- Lack of Transparency: Avoiding direct confrontation
The phrase suggests that the action is done in a way that the person cannot see or defend against it.
Real-Life Examples
1. Workplace Gossip
English: “She complained about her boss behind his back instead of addressing issues directly.”
Hindi: “उसने अपने बॉस के बारे में छिपकर शिकायत की, बजाय सीधे बात करने के।”
2. Friendship Betrayal
English: “Rahul spread rumors about his friend behind his back.”
Hindi: “राहुल ने अपने दोस्त के बारे में छिपकर अफवाहें फैलाईं।”
3. Family Conflicts
English: “They made financial decisions behind their parents’ back.”
Hindi: “उन्होंने अपने माता-पिता की पीठ पीछे वित्तीय फैसले किए।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why people act behind others’ backs:
✓ Fear of Confrontation: Avoiding direct conflict
✓ Manipulation: Gaining advantage secretly
✓ Cowardice: Lack of courage to face the person
Negative Effects:
✗ Erodes trust in relationships
✗ Creates a toxic environment
✗ Leads to long-term resentment
Usage Tips
✔ Use when describing deceitful or secretive behavior
✔ Effective in personal, professional, or social contexts
✔ Helps highlight the unethical nature of such actions
Similar Expressions
| English | Hindi |
|---|---|
| “Two-faced behavior” | “दोगला व्यवहार” |
| “Backstabbing” | “पीठ पीछे वार करना” |
| “Underhanded tactics” | “छल-कपट की रणनीति” |
Cultural Perspectives
Global views on deceit:
- Japanese: “Ura omote” (Front vs. hidden face) – contrasts public and private behavior
- Spanish: “Hacer algo a espaldas de alguien” (To do something behind someone’s back)
- Arabic: “Al-khiyana” (الخيانة) – betrayal is strongly condemned
Reflection Questions:
- Have you ever been hurt by someone acting behind your back? How did you handle it?
- How can we encourage transparency in relationships?
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