PhrasesHub

sitting back

    Definitions

      • being inactive or not taking action
        Refers to someone who is not actively participating or involved in a situation, often implying that they are not helping or contributing

      • relaxing or taking a break
        Indicates someone is taking time to rest or unwind, often after a period of hard work or stress

      • waiting or delaying action
        Implies someone is postponing making a decision or taking a step, usually to see how a situation unfolds or to gather more information

    Examples of sitting back

    • After a long day of work, Jane decided to sit back and relax on the couch with a good book.

      In this example, "sitting back" means that Jane is choosing to be inactive and do something peaceful and enjoyable, such as reading a book, instead of being actively involved in work or other activities. It implies that she has finished her work and is finally able to unwind and take a break.

    • During the final moments of the game, the coach instructed his players to sit back and defend instead of aggressively pushing for a goal.

      In this example, "sitting back" means that the team is choosing to take a defensive stance and wait for the opposing team to make a move, rather than taking the initiative and attacking. This strategy can be used in sports like soccer or basketball to conserve energy and prevent the other team from scoring.

    • The CEO sat back and allowed his assistant to handle the negotiations, trusting in her exceptional skills and experience.

      In this example, "sitting back" means that the CEO is choosing to take a passive role and let someone else handle a situation that he trusts they can handle. It implies that the CEO has confidence in his assistant's abilities and is willing to delegate responsibility to her.

    • As a child, Emily learned that sometimes it's best to sit back and observe before jumping into a situation.

      In this example, "sitting back" means that Emily is choosing to be patient and watch events unfold before taking action. It can imply that she wants to gather information and make an informed decision before acting, rather than rushing into a situation too quickly.

    • Jane sat back in her chair, feeling content with her accomplishments.

      This example illustrates the use of "sitting back" as a way to describe someone who is feeling satisfied or relaxed. In this case, Jane is sitting in a chair and has leaned back, possibly crossing her legs or otherwise making herself comfortable. This position would suggest that she is not actively working or engaging in any particular task, but rather taking a break or enjoying the moment. By using "sitting back," we see that Jane is not only physically comfortable but emotionally content as well.

    • The CEO sat back and listened intently as his employees presented their ideas.

      This example shows how "sitting back" can be used to describe someone who is actively listening and allowing others to take the lead. Here, the CEO is sitting in a chair with his posture relaxed, and he has shifted his weight back in the chair. This position is a clear sign that he is focused on what his employees are saying, and that he is not planning to interrupt, speak over them, or take any other kind of aggressive action. By sitting back, we can see that the CEO is demonstrating respect for his team's ideas and giving them the space they need to present their thoughts effectively.

    • Mike sat back with a smirk as his opponent made a fatal error.

      This example shows how "sitting back" can also be used to describe someone who is enjoying a situation that is working in their favor. In this case, Mike is sitting back in his chair, perhaps leaning back slightly, and he has a smirk on his face. This expression, combined with his relaxed position, suggests that he is pleased with the turn of events and feels confident that he has the upper hand. By using "sitting back," we can see that Mike is not only physically comfortable but emotionally satisfied as well, as he watches his opponent make a mistake.

    • Sarah sat back and took a deep breath, preparing herself for what was to come.

      This example illustrates how "sitting back" can be used to describe someone who is mentally preparing themselves for something, whether it is a challenge, a confrontation, or simply a new experience. In this case, Sarah is sitting back in her chair, possibly with her hands folded in her lap or her arms crossed. This posture suggests that she is taking a moment to gather her thoughts, collect her emotions, and psychologically prepare herself for what lies ahead. By using "sitting back," we see that Sarah is not only physically comfortable but mentally focused and emotionally centered as well.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "sitting back" can have different meanings based on the context in which it is used. It can refer to being inactive or not taking action, relaxing or taking a break, and waiting or delaying action. In various situations, it can convey a sense of passivity, rest, or cautious observation.

    In everyday conversations, people may use this idiom to describe someone who is not actively participating in a discussion or situation, someone who is taking a moment to relax, or someone who is holding off on making a decision. Understanding the intended meaning of "sitting back" requires paying attention to the context in which it is used.

    Origin of "sitting back"

    The origin of the idiom "sitting back" can be traced back to the literal act of sitting back or reclining in a relaxed position. The concept of sitting back has long been associated with taking a break, resting, or observing without actively participating. This idea has been metaphorically extended to various situations where someone is not fully engaged or involved.

    Over time, the idiom "sitting back" has become a common phrase in English language usage to convey the idea of being inactive, relaxing, or waiting. It has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to passivity, relaxation, and delayed action. The versatility of this idiom allows it to be applied in different contexts to express various shades of meaning related to inaction or rest.