Definition
背靠背 is a set phrase meaning literally 'back-to-back', describing two people standing or sitting with their backs touching. Figuratively, it means 'without each other's knowledge' or 'behind someone's back', especially when doing something secretly. It functions as an adverb or verb phrase in sentences.
v.p./adv.
(literally) back-to-back (physical posture)(figuratively) without each other's knowledgeseparately (of actions done secretly)
Examples
- 背靠背。Wǒmen liǎng gè rén bēi zuò zhe xiūxi.The two of us sat back-to-back to rest.
- 背靠背，。Tāmen bēi zuò le liǎng cì mǎimai, shéi dōu bú gàosu shéi.They each made two deals without the other knowing.
- 背靠背，。Zhè liǎng jiā gōngsī bēi qiān le hétong, hùxiāng bù zhīdao.These two companies signed contracts without each other's knowledge.
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