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put behind

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put something behind someone or something

to place something in back of someone or something. I put the box behind Mary, and she didn't even know it was there. Please put the present behind the couch where janet will not see it.

See also: behind, put

put something behind somebody/something

to support someone or something When America declared war, Ford put his factories behind the war effort, making huge numbers of planes, trucks, and boats in his factories. My father put his reputation - and his money - behind the reform politicians.

See also: behind, put

put something behind you

to decide to forget or ignore something unpleasant put away something Frank, who survived the blast, says he still hasn't put the tragedy behind him.

See also: behind, put

put behind

v.

1. To place something to the rear of something or someone: I put the wires behind the bookcase, where no one can see them.

2. To provide something to someone or something as a means of support or assistance: The corporation put one million dollars behind the reconstruction project.

3. To consciously stop worrying or thinking about some unpleasant experience: I'm glad you put those bad days behind you and finished your studies.

4. To place someone in some lower or less advanced grade or class, especially due to inadequate performance: I couldn't pass all the required tests, so they had to put me behind with the beginners.

See also: behind, put