against the background

USAGE SUMMARY

"against the background" can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe something as being seen, heard, or experienced against a particular backdrop. For example: "The colors of the sunset stood out against the background of the night sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Neurites were also easily distinguishable against the background.

Nature

This data is discussed against the background of existing information.

Archives of Oral Biology

Against the background of the domestic turmoil in Egypt, Brig.

The New York Times

It is a thriller played against the background of a real estate crisis.

Columbia University

The political maneuvering has played out against the background of an economy that is languishing.

Columbia University

Giotto's commissions are best understood against the background of this social turmoil.

Harvard University

This book discusses sharecropping in the Yemen against the background of Islamic law and customary law.

Stanford University

Osborne's speech also comes against the background of two key letters today.

The Guardian

Against the background of the office various things are seen sharply, in outline.

The New Yorker

His stationery was emblazoned with his initials set against the background of a golden eagle.

The New York Times

Turn the picture level down until one of the bars disappears against the background.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "against the background" to provide context or a setting for an event, action, or observation. It helps to clarify the circumstances or conditions under which something occurs, adding depth and understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "against the background" when you simply mean 'behind'. The phrase implies a more complex contextual relationship, not just a physical position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "against the background" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, providing context or setting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe situations, events, or observations in relation to their surrounding circumstances. This is evidenced by the examples where it sets the stage for understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

41%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "against the background" serves as a prepositional phrase used to provide context or setting, functioning to clarify the circumstances under which an event or observation occurs. As Ludwig AI's analysis shows, this phrase is grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in science, news, and academic writing. It is important to use it to add depth and understanding, rather than simply indicating a physical position. By understanding the scope and purpose of this phrase, writers can effectively use it to create a more comprehensive and nuanced depiction of events and ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considering the circumstances

Explicitly mentions the surrounding conditions and their impact.

given the context of

Highlights the importance of the situation or circumstances surrounding an event or action.

in consideration of

Similar to "considering", but adds a layer of formality and thoroughness.

in the setting of

Emphasizes the location or environment where an event or situation takes place.

in light of

Focuses on providing a clarifying perspective or understanding given certain conditions.

taking into account

Stresses the inclusion of relevant factors or conditions in an assessment or decision.

considering

Emphasizes contemplation or deliberation of the surrounding factors.

within the framework of

Implies a structured or organized setting that provides context.

within the scope of

Highlights the boundaries or limitations that define the context.

with respect to

Indicates a specific aspect or element being considered in relation to the surroundings.

FAQs

How can I use "against the background" in a sentence?

Use "against the background" to provide context or setting. For example, "The negotiations took place "against the background" of ongoing economic uncertainty".

What phrases are similar to "against the background"?

Similar phrases include "in light of", "given the context of", and "considering the circumstances".

Is "against the background" formal or informal?

"Against the background" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

What is the difference between "against the background" and "behind"?

"Against the background" implies a contextual relationship, whereas "behind" indicates a physical position. Use "against the background" to provide setting and context, and "behind" to indicate location.