English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
To see the back of
Meaning
The idiom "to see the back of" means to end, put an end to, or get rid of something, often something that is difficult or unpleasant. It can also mean to escape from a situation or person that is causing problems.
Usage
- I can't wait to see the back of this project. It's been giving me so much stress.
- After years of struggling with addiction, John finally saw the back of it and turned his life around.
- The company saw the back of its competitors after acquiring their market share.
- I'm glad to see the back of winter. I can't stand the cold weather.
- The new employee saw the back of her first day at work and was already looking forward to coming back tomorrow. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context, as it can be used in a positive or negative way. For example, seeing the back of a difficult project can be a relief, while seeing the back of an addiction is often seen as a positive outcome.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "to see the back of" dates back to the 16th century. It was first used in the sense of completing or finishing something. Over time, it evolved to mean getting rid of or putting an end to something. The idiom is widely used in English and has regional variations in some parts of the world, such as "to see the light of day" in Australia.
Synonyms in English
- To finish with
- To put an end to
- To lay low
- To bid farewell to
- To say goodbye to
Synonyms in other languages
- In Spanish, the equivalent idiom is "ver la luz" (to see the light), which has a similar meaning of ending something or reaching a positive outcome.
- In French, the equivalent idiom is "voir la fin", which means to see the end or conclusion of something.
- In German, the equivalent idiom is "erlebte den Schluss", which means to experience the end or conclusion of something.