Behind bars

usgb
prepositional phrase

In jail or prison.

The criminal was put behind bars for his crimes.
Visual representation of "behind bars" - In jail or prison

Often appears as...

  • put behind bars
  • end up behind bars

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "behind bars"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Context Matters

Understand the situation to decide if 'behind bars' means jail or a metaphorical restriction.

Illustration for Context Matters
After the trial, the judge put the thief behind bars.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

'Behind bars' is casual language, more common in spoken than formal written English.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
The newscaster said the celebrity could end up behind bars.
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Suggests Punishment

The phrase usually implies a person is imprisoned as consequences of their actions.

Illustration for Suggests Punishment
Anyone caught stealing will find themselves behind bars.
Visual representation of the word "Behind bars"

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