THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
On the back burner
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Temporarily given less attention or left until later while other things take priority.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- We have put the website redesign on the back burner until the exams are over.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
We have put the website redesign ________ until the exams are over.
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On the back burner — Temporarily given less attention or left until later while other things take priority.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “On the back burner” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
Temporarily given less attention or left until later while other things take priority.
Compare: We have put the website redesign on the back burner until the exams are over.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this expression when a plan or task is postponed rather than cancelled. It suits conversations about competing priorities.
More examples in context
- The reading-room idea is on the back burner while the roof is repaired.
- I kept the optional project on the back burner during the busy season.
Usage note
Common patterns are put something on the back burner and be on the back burner. The phrase does not mean permanently rejected. Naming a review point can help listeners understand when it may be considered again.
A short conversation
A: Are we still planning the weekend exhibition?
B: It is on the back burner until the hall reopens.
A: Let’s review it when we have a confirmed date.
One more practice question
What does putting a project on the back burner usually mean?
A. Giving it lower priority for now and considering it later.
B. Declaring that it is permanently impossible.
Check your answer
A. The phrase normally describes postponement or reduced priority, not permanent cancellation.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.