each others backs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "each other's backs" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to describe a close and supportive relationship between two or more people who are willing to help and protect each other. Example: "Despite their differences, the siblings always have each other's backs whenever they face challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

You'd look down at us, and we're still swinging machetes and talking behind each others' backs.

The Guardian - Music

"I wish for a world in which hands would only be used for handshakes, for rubbing each others backs".

The New York Times

Lads get on each others' backs, looking around for people to blame, but you have got to be mentally strong.

The Guardian - Sport

They have each others backs, and all too often they are interested in what's good for them, not what is in the interests of all of us.

The Guardian

The Wilson years were especially poisonous, as the beasts bit each others' backs regularly and claimed the rest weren't up to snuff.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But I just don't spend my time worrying about stockpiling guns and ammunition, because our security comes not from stockpiling weapons but from having a community that respects each other, supports each other, and we have each others' backs".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

If the FCC did that and Congress committed the same, network operators would climb over each-others backs to get the job done the good old fashioned way capital investment with some reasonable assurance it would result in a positive risk-adjusted return.

Forbes

We are both holding each other back. . . .

The New Yorker

They did not know each other back then.

The New York Times - Sports

"They complemented each other, backed each other up in a way that was absolutely remarkable".

The New Yorker

Brothers are always on each other, kind of jiving each other back and forth.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, using "each others backs" adds a sense of camaraderie and authenticity, showcasing a close-knit bond between characters.

Common error

Avoid writing "each other's back" (singular) when referring to multiple people supporting each other. The correct form, "each others backs", emphasizes the reciprocal nature of the support within the group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "each others backs" functions as a possessive phrase indicating mutual support and protection within a group. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, reinforcing its role in describing reciprocal relationships.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

6%

Reference

6%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "each others backs" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey mutual support and protection, as affirmed by Ludwig. It is common in News & Media, Wiki and Formal & Business. To ensure accuracy, remember that it's possessive form, making "each others backs" the most accurate construction. Alternatives include "support each other", "protect one another" and "have each other's back", offering subtly different shades of meaning. Overall, as Ludwig indicates, the phrase is versatile and widely understood, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have each other's back

A slightly less formal variant retaining the original meaning.

support each other

Focuses on the act of providing assistance, removing the possessive aspect.

support one another

A more formal alternative to 'support each other'.

protect one another

Emphasizes the protective aspect of the relationship, rather than general support.

are there for each other

Highlights availability and reliability in times of need.

look after one another

Suggests care and responsibility for each other's well-being.

stand by each other

Highlights loyalty and steadfastness in a relationship, more than active support.

watch out for each other

Implies vigilance and care in preventing harm, shifting the focus to preventative measures.

defend one another

Highlights the act of protecting someone from attack or criticism.

stick together

Emphasizes unity and cohesion in facing challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "each others backs" in a sentence?

You can use "each others backs" to describe mutual support and protection, like in: "Despite their differences, they always "have each other's back"".

What is a less formal way to say "each others backs"?

A less formal way to say "each others backs" is to say "support each other" or "help one another", focusing on the action of helping.

Is it correct to say "each other's back" instead of "each others backs"?

No, "each other's back" is typically incorrect when referring to multiple people. "Each others backs" is the correct plural possessive form, indicating that multiple individuals are supporting one another.

What's the difference between "each others backs" and "watching each others backs"?

"Each others backs" generally implies a continuous state of mutual support, while "watching each others backs" suggests being vigilant and ready to defend or assist if needed. They're closely related, but the latter emphasizes active awareness and readiness.