hide behind
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle behind
Meanings
Use something as an excuse so people cannot blame you
Why “behind”? A hidden cause sits behind the action you can see.
“The manager hid behind company policy instead of explaining her decision.”
“Don't hide behind being tired. Tell me what is really wrong.”
Don't confuse with
Hide behind means use something as an excuse. Hide under means keep something beneath a covering.
Test yourself
“The manager hid behind company policy instead of explaining her decision.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
hide under
A contrast learners often mix up
Hide something beneath a covering
be behind
Same behind pattern: hidden cause
Be late with work or a schedule; Be the hidden cause or organiser of something; Support a person, plan, or cause
lie behind
Same behind pattern: hidden cause
Be the underlying cause of something visible
lurk behind
Same behind pattern: hidden cause
Be hidden or unseen behind a visible cause
stand behind
Same behind pattern: hidden cause
Be the unseen reason or motivator for something; Continue to support someone in difficulty
hide away
Same base verb: hide
Put something in a secret or private place
hide out
Same base verb: hide
Stay in a secret place to avoid being found
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