put behind

put (something) behind (someone or something)

1. To stop focusing on, thinking about, or obsessing over something. You should put those bad memories behind you and start focusing on the good life you have now. Let's just put this loss behind us and start preparing for the next game.

2. To provide or give something that aids, supports, or assists someone or something. The committee members promised to put the fund behind a development scheme for the impoverished area. We're putting all of our resources behind you and your team.

See also: behind, put

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

put something behind someone or something

to place something in back of someone or something. I put the box behind Mary, and she didn't even know it was there. Please put the present behind the couch where janet will not see it.

See also: behind, put

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

put behind

v.

1. To place something to the rear of something or someone: I put the wires behind the bookcase, where no one can see them.

2. To provide something to someone or something as a means of support or assistance: The corporation put one million dollars behind the reconstruction project.

3. To consciously stop worrying or thinking about some unpleasant experience: I'm glad you put those bad days behind you and finished your studies.

4. To place someone in some lower or less advanced grade or class, especially due to inadequate performance: I couldn't pass all the required tests, so they had to put me behind with the beginners.

See also: behind, put

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.