behind the scenes

¹

[ bih-hahynd thuh seenz ]

idiom

1. in secret or in private:

   Unbeknownst to most people, the group manipulated the survey results from behind the scenes.

2. in a part of a show, production, organization, etc., that is not visible to the public; backstage:

   Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at a rock concert?

   Join us as we take you behind the scenes of our photo shoot and discuss some of the products used.

behind-the-scenes

²

[ bih-hahynd-thuh-seenz ]

adjective

1. happening or conducted out of view of the general public:

   The behind-the-scenes preparations made the convention a huge success.

2. held or kept privately by or among a few key or influential people:

   There are rumors of behind-the-scenes negotiations taking place that may change international laws on nuclear power.

3. occurring backstage:

   I could hear the behind-the-scenes activities of the stage crew.

Word History and Origins

Origin of behind the scenes¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Origin of behind the scenes²

First recorded in 1835–45

Idioms and Phrases

In secret or private, away from public view, as in His struggle for the top position took place strictly behind the scenes . This term alludes to the various activities that go on behind the curtain in theaters, out of the audience's view. [Late 1700s] Also see behind closed doors .

Example Sentences

While missing that deadline was embarrassing, behind the scenes a more serious issue was playing out - Volocopter was urgently trying to raise fresh investment to keep the firm going.

From BBC

What a joy it’s going to be trying to decipher whatever is said by whoever becomes Trump’s press secretary, with Budowich in charge behind the scenes.

From Salon

The Azerbaijani president's comments are unlikely to derail talks behind the scenes, which are largely about getting more cash for poorer countries to help implement their climate plans.

From BBC

The weekly column takes you behind the scenes and shines a spotlight on unique stories.

From Los Angeles Times

"It is showing the importance and hard work going on behind the scenes to give those boys the exposure so they can see what that next level feels like."

From BBC

Related Words

• confidential
• exclusive
• independent
• individual
• secret
• separate
• special