burner

be on the back burner

if a plan is on the back burner, no one is dealing with it at present, but it has not been completely forgotten. For the moment, strike action is on the back burner.

See also: back

put something on the back burner

be on the back burner - if a plan is on the back burner, no one is dealing with it at present, but it has not been completely forgotten. Plans for a new sports complex have been put on the back burner.

See also: back

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on the back burner

not getting or needing immediate attention. After months on the back burner, the debate about e-mail privacy is about to be renewed.

Usage notes: often used with put: She decided to attend Harvard, where she would study political theory and put her acting career on the back burner.

See also: back

on the front burner

getting or needing immediate attention. We want to make sure that aid for Africa is on the front burner. Retirement planning hasn't exactly been on Kessler's front burner.

Usage notes: sometimes used with put: The president has finally put this issue on the front burner.

on the back burner

See also: front