On the back foot

Suggest a Correction

Meaning

At a disadvantage or retreating, off balance.

Origin

From 20th-century Britain, tied to boxing; 'back foot' meant retreat, slang by 1930s for loss. A 1935 'Times' uses it for a debate slip.

Variants

  • Back foot

Usage Examples

  • He's on the back foot after that call.
  • She's on the back foot; argument lost.
  • On the back foot; we're slipping.

Browse More

A to Z More O phrases