Behindhand: meaning, definitions and examples
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behindhand
[ bɪˈhaɪndhænd ]
time management
Behindhand refers to being late or overdue in a task or responsibility. It often suggests a failure to keep up with obligations, which can lead to stress and complications. The term can be applied to both individuals and groups. It also denotes a sense of being out of step with current progress or standards.
Synonyms
behind, delayed, late, overdue
Examples of usage
- She was behindhand in her studies.
- The project has been left behindhand.
- He felt behindhand in his work due to personal issues.
Translations
Translations of the word "behindhand" in other languages:
🇵🇹 atrasado
🇮🇳 पीछे
🇩🇪 hinterher
🇮🇩 terlambat
🇺🇦 запізнілий
🇵🇱 opóźniony
🇯🇵 遅れた
🇫🇷 en retard
🇪🇸 atrasado
🇹🇷 gecikmiş
🇰🇷 뒤처진
🇸🇦 متأخر
🇨🇿 zpožděný
🇸🇰 oneskorený
🇨🇳 落后
🇸🇮 zapoznel
🇮🇸 seinkaður
🇰🇿 кешіктірілген
🇬🇪 დაგვიანებული
🇦🇿 geri qalmış
🇲🇽 atrasado
Etymology
The term 'behindhand' has its roots in the English language, deriving from two components: 'behind' and 'hand.' 'Behind' suggests a position at the back or a state of being late, while 'hand' often relates to work or tasks at hand. This combined meaning has existed since at least the 17th century, often used in legal or formal contexts to denote delays in obligations or deliveries. Initially, it emphasized the notion of being delayed in a more tangible sense, such as physical tasks or responsibilities. Over time, 'behindhand' evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, reflecting not just physical delays but also psychological or emotional states associated with neglect or procrastination. Its usage has varied, but it has consistently conveyed the idea of falling short in fulfilling duties, becoming an essential term in discussions about productivity and accountability.