(in/at/to) the back of (your) mind
Meaning(s)
1. something you are aware of but not actively thinking about
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
what happened is still in the back of my mind
Analysis
If something is 'in or at the back of your mind,' then it is constantly bothering or influencing you, even if you may not be fully conscious of it, like a nagging irritation. It can also be something that you know but just cannot recall, like the name of an acquaintance. If you put something 'to the back of your mind,' you try to stop it from affecting you by trying not to think about it. This expression is common in both a social and professional setting.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I can never relax living in such a dangerous city. A fear of being mugged is always at the back of my mind.
- Person A: "I'm sure I've seen that man before. Who is he?" Person B: "It's in the back of my mind, but I just can't remember."
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I haven't performed to my usual level at work this week. I think the argument I had with my boss recently is still in the back of my mind.
- The consequences of missing the deadline could be disastrous, but I tried to push such thoughts to the back of my mind so I could focus on the task at hand.
- The client you're meeting doesn't like business speak, so just keep that in the back of your mind when talking to her.