Idiom
back burner
Meanings
A lower priority that is postponed and handled later.
Definition
If something is on the back burner, it is not a priority right now and will be dealt with later.
To put something on the back burner means to delay it and give attention to more urgent or important matters first. It suggests the task is still planned, but it is not being actively worked on. People often use it for projects, decisions, or personal goals that are postponed.
Examples
- We put the website redesign on the back burner until the product launch is done.
- My travel plans are on the back burner while I save money.
- After the merger talks started, the hiring plan went on the back burner.
- I had to put my hobby on the back burner during finals week.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More noun phrases
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- gravy train A gravy train is an easy, steady way to make a lot of money with little effort.
- green thumb A green thumb is a natural skill at growing and caring for plants.
- mug's game A mug's game is an activity that is pointless or likely to end badly for the person doing it.
- level playing field A level playing field is a situation where everyone has the same opportunities and no unfair advant…