Tuesday, January 31, 2017

To be glad to see the back of


Context #1: Kim and Derek are at work sitting in the break room. They begin talking about their co-worker, Fred.

Kim: You know - Fred was late again today.
Derek: I’m not surprised. I had to finish his last project because he wasn’t here to do it.
Kim: Does the boss know?
Derek: The boss knows now. He is pretty angry. I heard the boss tell Fred the next time he’s late or his work isn’t finished, he’ll be fired.
Kim: That’s fine by me. Fred’s lazy. Actually, I’ll be glad to see the back of him!


Context #2 : Joe is writing a post card about his experience at summer camp…

Dear Mom and Dad,

I can’t believe I’m still here. Every hour seems to take a week! I really miss you and I miss home. It’s cold here. The other kids are really mean. I can’t sleep in this uncomfortable bed. Also, the activities are boring. I’ll be glad to see the back of this place!

Love, Joe.

Meaning: We use this idiom when a person or thing is part of our life and is not liked. A similar idiom is “to be glad to get rid of.” When you “see the back of” a person, it means that person is leaving. In other words, if you are “glad” to “see the back of” someone, you are happy that person is leaving.

3 comments:

  1. Thanks a lot for sharing, guys ... Can we also say 'glad to see the LAST of someone' to mean the same? ... We love you ...

    Russian ESL students
    Moscow

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for you reply! We love your inputs! Yes, you can say "be glad to see the last of". The meaning is the same! Have a wonderful day, dear student!

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    2. You're very welcome, guys ... Can't wait for more of your super awesome expressions ... Keep up the good work ...

      Your Russian fans
      Moscow

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