Background: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when talking about someone's history, skills, or the circumstances surrounding something.

• She has a background in engineering
• The background of this problem is quite complex

Use when describing the scenery behind something, often in a theatrical or figurative sense.

• The mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to the city
• The political unrest acted as a backdrop to the story

Use when talking about the place or time where something happens, often in literature or movies.

• The story is set in a medieval setting
• The beach made a perfect setting for their wedding

Use when referring to the natural world or the conditions affecting someone.

• We need to protect the environment from pollution
• The work environment here is very supportive

This word is often used to describe the general circumstances or factors leading up to a particular situation or a person's qualifications and past experiences in a broad sense.

• She has a strong background in engineering.
• His family background influenced his career choice.

This term is most appropriate when referring to practical contact with and observation of facts or events, often in a professional setting.

• He has five years of experience in software development.
• Her experience in marketing helped her get the job.

This is best used when discussing someone's formal schooling, degrees, or learning process.

• Her education includes a degree in biology.
• They value education highly in their family.

This term is typically used when referring to a systematic record or account of past events, developments, or a person's past incidents, especially in a historical context.

• The history of the Roman Empire is fascinating.
• She has a history of volunteering in the community.

Use this word when referring to the scenery or surroundings behind a main subject in a picture or scene.

• The mountains in the background are stunning.
• He likes to sit with the ocean in the background.

This phrase is used when talking about activities that are not visible to the general public, typically used in entertainment or business contexts.

• The documentary showed behind the scenes of a Broadway show.
• A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to make the event successful.

Use this phrase when referring to fundamental or basic activities that support a larger function, often used in scientific, technical, or analytical contexts.

• Understanding the underlying processes can help improve efficiency.
• The report analyzes the underlying processes behind climate change.

This term is used for activities that are deliberately kept secret, often used in a business or technical context, sometimes carrying a negative connotation.

• The investigation uncovered several hidden operations within the company.
• There are hidden operations that ensure the system runs smoothly.