stuck behind

USAGE SUMMARY

"stuck behind" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or object that is behind another person or object, usually due to the inability to pass them. For example, "I got stuck behind a slow driver on the freeway, so I was late to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Usage

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"They've stuck behind is.

The New York Times

He was stuck behind eight other Democrats.

The New York Times

"But everyone stuck behind me.

The New York Times - Sports

We were stuck behind their snores.

The Guardian

I also got stuck behind the Manors.

The Guardian - Sport

His rented Lexus got stuck behind a bullock cart.

The New York Times

The resolution was stuck behind a series of other bills.

The New York Times

I also got stuck behind this fucking barrier.

The New Yorker

"If you're stuck behind a bus, make that hard left.

The New York Times - Travel

"The club was getting stuck behind him," Tiziani said.

The New York Times

"It was unfortunate I got stuck behind Coulthard," said Hamilton.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stuck behind" in writing, ensure the context clearly identifies what is causing the obstruction or delay. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "stuck behind" in purely abstract contexts where a more appropriate phrase like "lagging in" or "behind schedule" would be more fitting. "Stuck behind" generally implies a physical or directly impeding obstruction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stuck behind" primarily functions as a phrasal verb indicating a state of being obstructed or delayed by something or someone ahead. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples show its application in both literal and figurative contexts, such as being "stuck behind" a vehicle or a competitor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sports

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stuck behind" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe being obstructed or delayed by something. According to Ludwig AI, its primary function is to convey a sense of hindrance, and it's most frequently used in news and media contexts. While it can be used both literally and figuratively, it's important to ensure the context clearly identifies the cause of the obstruction to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases like "held up by" or "delayed by" can be used as alternatives, especially in more formal settings. It's advisable to avoid using "stuck behind" in abstract contexts where a more precise phrase would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

caught behind

Similar to "stuck behind", but implies a more accidental or unintentional situation.

held up by

Indicates being delayed or obstructed by something, similar to being "stuck behind", but with a slightly more passive connotation.

blocked by

Focuses on the complete obstruction of movement, similar to being physically "stuck behind" something.

delayed by

Emphasizes the time aspect of being "stuck behind", highlighting the delay caused by an obstruction.

held back by

Suggests a restraining force or influence preventing forward movement, similar to being "stuck behind" an obstacle.

obstructed by

Focuses on the physical or metaphorical obstruction causing the delay, akin to being "stuck behind" something.

hindered by

Like "hampered by", but suggests a more direct obstruction of progress.

impeded by

Similar to "obstructed by", but suggests a more active hindering or prevention of progress.

hampered by

Highlights the restrictive or inhibiting effect of something, similar to being "stuck behind" a barrier.

trailing after

Indicates following behind something, often with a sense of difficulty or being unable to overtake.

FAQs

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

You can use "stuck behind" to describe being delayed or obstructed by something in front of you. For example, "I was "stuck behind" a slow truck on the highway."

What's a more formal way to say "stuck behind"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "delayed by" or "impeded by" instead of ""stuck behind"".

Is it correct to say "stuck in the back of" instead of "stuck behind"?

While "stuck in the back of" implies being in the rear, it doesn't necessarily convey the sense of obstruction or delay that ""stuck behind"" does. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to express.

Can "stuck behind" be used metaphorically?

Yes, ""stuck behind"" can be used metaphorically to describe being held back by something intangible, such as being "stuck behind" outdated technology or old ideas.