On the back burner Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If something is 'on the back burner', it is not a priority right now and will be dealt with later. It means you have delayed or paused working on it because something else is more important at the moment.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, idiomatic expression. Commonly used with 'put', 'leave', or 'keep' (e.g., 'put on the back burner'). Not used for permanent cancellation—just delay or deprioritization. Often involves work, plans, or personal goals.
Example Sentences
I'm putting my travel plans on the back burner for now.
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The project was left on the back burner while we finished urgent work.
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She decided to keep her idea on the back burner until next year.
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Sometimes dreams have to stay on the back burner when life gets busy.
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I'm not quitting—I'm just putting this goal on the back burner for a while.
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We had so many tasks this week that team meetings were moved on the back burner.
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