THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Behind the times
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Old-fashioned or no longer up to date.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- Our paper-only booking system is behind the times.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
0 of 1 checked correctly
Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
Our paper-only booking system is ________.
Show the answer
Behind the times — Old-fashioned or no longer up to date.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Behind the times” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
Old-fashioned or no longer up to date.
Compare: Our paper-only booking system is behind the times.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
Self-review only. Your sentence is not automatically marked, saved or submitted.
This quiz is for practice. To save lesson completion on this device, complete the checks in the app.
GO DEEPER
More ways to understand and use it
Jump to a section
When to use it
Use it about methods, technology or attitudes that have not kept up with changes. It can sound critical, especially when used about a person.
More examples in context
- The course felt behind the times because none of the examples reflected current workplaces.
- I am a little behind the times when it comes to new messaging apps.
Usage note
Keep times plural. This describes being outdated; it does not mean arriving late for an appointment.
A short conversation
A: Do we still need to print and post every form?
B: That process is behind the times. We could offer an online option.
A: Let us find out what users prefer.
One more practice question
Which description means behind the times?
A. Using outdated methods that no longer fit current needs.
B. Using a modern method that suits current needs.
Check your answer
A. Behind the times means old-fashioned or outdated.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.