B2idiomtravelIELTS-friendly
take a back seat
USUK
to become less active or less important and let others lead
Used for people (stepping back) and for things (becoming less important). 'A back seat' always has the article.
In context
My dad has taken a back seat in the family shop and lets my brother run it.
During exam season, my hobbies have to take a back seat.
More idioms about travel
- a bumpy ridea difficult period with many problems
- a change of scenerytime in a new place that makes you feel fresh and different
- a flying visita very short visit
- a fork in the roada point where you must choose between two different paths or decisions
- a home away from homea place where you feel as comfortable and relaxed as in your own home