Take a back seat

usgb
verb

To accept a less important position or role.

After having kids, she decided to take a back seat in her career.
Visual representation of "take a back seat" - To accept a less important position or role.

Often appears as...

  • decide to take a back seat
  • willing to take a back seat

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "take a back seat"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Center Stage

When you 'take a back seat', you are letting others lead or get attention while you stay less visible.

Illustration for Not Center Stage
During the meeting, Joe took a back seat and let his team present the project.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Voluntary Passivity

It suggests a choice to not be in control or at the forefront of an activity or decision-making.

Illustration for Voluntary Passivity
He willingly took a back seat to let his co-founder manage the negotiations.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Temporary Status

The phrase often implies the situation is not permanent and you might take an active role again later.

Illustration for Temporary Status
She's taking a back seat during this project but will lead the next one.
Visual representation of the word "Take a back seat"

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