behind you

USAGE SUMMARY

"behind you" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is located at the back of a person or object. Here are some examples of how to use it in a sentence: - "Be careful, there's a car coming up behind you." - "I left my backpack behind you, can you hand it to me?" - "The book fell off the shelf behind you." - "I heard a noise behind me and turned to see who was there." - "The cat was hiding behind the couch, but when I called her she came running towards me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"BEHIND YOU!" shrieked the crowd.

Forbes

The lead will behind you.

WikiHow

"Behind you!

Independent

It's behind you.

The Guardian - Film

"Behind you!" I yelled.

The New Yorker

I am right behind you.

The Guardian

"They're standing right behind you".

The New Yorker

I'll be right behind you".

The New Yorker

"Shut the door behind you.

The New Yorker

Get the crowd behind you.

The New York Times

Your enemy is behind you.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "behind you" to warn someone of danger, ensure your tone and delivery clearly convey the urgency of the situation. A simple "Behind you!" can be more effective than a longer explanation in critical moments.

Common error

Avoid using "behind you" literally when you mean to express support or encouragement. While it can imply backing, clearer phrases like "I'm supporting you" or "I'm with you" are less ambiguous in these contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "behind you" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a spatial relationship, signifying something or someone is located at the rear. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a common and correct phrase in English. Examples from Ludwig show it used in warnings, directions, and descriptions of location.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "behind you" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves multiple functions, including indicating spatial relationships, offering warnings, and providing support. Its usage spans various contexts, from news reports to casual conversations, making it a valuable addition to one's linguistic toolkit. While generally neutral in register, awareness of context is crucial to avoid misinterpretations. Pay attention to using it literally when you mean to express support, in which case, clearer phrases may exist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

directly behind you

This phrase emphasizes the exact placement of something or someone immediately at the rear.

right after you

This phrase indicates immediacy and close proximity in following someone.

following you

This phrase emphasizes the action of trailing or coming after someone, whether physically or metaphorically.

at your back

This alternative uses a more formal and literary tone, emphasizing the protective or supportive presence.

trailing you

This alternative emphasizes movement and the act of following someone closely.

in support of you

This alternative shifts the focus to providing assistance or backing to someone's endeavors.

in the back of you

This alternative focuses on the position, like being in the back seat of a car.

in your wake

This phrase focuses on the trail or consequences left by someone's passage or actions.

in pursuit of you

This alternative implies chasing or seeking someone with intent.

I support you

A simple statement of backing or encouragement, applicable in various situations.

FAQs

How can I use "behind you" in a sentence?

You can use "behind you" to indicate physical position (e.g., "The car is behind you.") or to offer support (e.g., "I'm behind you all the way.").

What are some alternatives to "behind you" in a literal sense?

Alternatives to "behind you" when referring to a physical position include "at your back", "directly behind you", or "following you".

When is it appropriate to use "behind you" figuratively?

Use "behind you" figuratively when you want to express support, encouragement, or that you are backing someone's decisions or actions.

What's the difference between "behind you" and "I'm with you"?

"Behind you" often implies a supportive role, like backing someone's play. "I'm with you" suggests agreement or solidarity, indicating that you share the same viewpoint or are facing a situation together.