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On the Back Burner

What Does "On the Back Burner" Mean?

homeidiomsOn the Back Burner
"On the back burner" is an English idiom. It means "set aside or postponed, often due to a lack of immediate priority or attention."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "on the back burner" used in a sentence:
  • The plan to renovate the kitchen was put on the back burner when unexpected expenses arose.
  • His dream of traveling the world had to be placed on the back burner while he focused on his career.
  • The research project was temporarily on the back burner until additional funding could be secured.
meaning for on the back burner

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "On the Back Burner" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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