go behind someone's back

go behind (one's) back

To do something in one's absence. The phrase typically suggests wrongdoing or deceit. I can't believe you went behind my back and gossiped about me! Tom will be upset that we've gone behind his back and made the decision. I know you're desperate to get this deal done, but I wouldn't go behind the Speaker's back to do it.

See also: back, behind, go

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

go behind someone's back

If someone goes behind your back, they do something secretly or without your permission. Leonard, you haven't been completely open with me. You think I wouldn't know when you go behind my back? They go behind our backs, they withhold information, they talk down to us like idiots. Compare with do something behind someone's back.

See also: back, behind, go

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012