take a back seat
idiomatic phrase
variants
or take a backseat
: to have or assume a secondary position or status : to be or become less important, active, or powerful
Howard loved directing "more than I even thought I would," and his acting career has taken a back seat ever since.—
Newsweek
NewsweekThat's why Bryant's willingness to tone down his game is significant. It doesn't mean, however, that he's content to take a backseat indefinitely.—Phil Taylor
—often used with toPhil TaylorPhysically and emotionally, these guys take a back seat to no one.—Mark Vancil
Mark VancilExamples of take a back seat in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The contractual wrangling takes a back seat in the film once Allyson experiences complications.
—Lisa Kennedy, Variety, 11 June 2025
Sometimes, valuations take a back seat when investors get eager about the outlook.
—Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
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Big beauty containers can sometimes take a back seat to storage availability, especially in dorm rooms.
—Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 16 May 2025
But, in recent weeks, the former New England Patriots coach's accomplishments during his storied football career have largely taken a back seat to his romance with Jordon Hudson.
—Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for take a back seat
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Lisa Kennedy, Variety, 11 June 2025
Sometimes, valuations take a back seat when investors get eager about the outlook.
—Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Sephora Favorites Clean Me Up Kit $50 at Sephora
Big beauty containers can sometimes take a back seat to storage availability, especially in dorm rooms.
—Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 16 May 2025
But, in recent weeks, the former New England Patriots coach's accomplishments during his storied football career have largely taken a back seat to his romance with Jordon Hudson.
—Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for take a back seat
Cite this Entry
“Take a back seat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20a%20back%20seat. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.
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