behind the scenes

Definitions

1. behind the scenery and stage area; backstage; among the actors; during the production or rehearsal
   idiomatic
2. In secret; out of public view.
   figuratively, idiomatic

Equivalents

Examples

“Many videos come⟳ with features that show⟳ what went on behind the scenes to make⟳ the movie and special effects.”

“The men who stood behind the scenes and worked the religious puppet-show by hidden wires to the awe and astonishment of the gaping vulgar.”

“The government has been negotiating behind the scenes with the separatists for months.”

“He was more comfortable behind the scenes, he admitted, writing articles, drafting speeches for others. “I don't really have⟳ what it takes to be a hand-shaker or a baby-kisser,” he said.”

“They told me it was because they knew the Hur report⟳ was about to drop. And they knew it would have⟳ all this stuff about classified information and about him seeming superold and addled behind the scenes.”

CEFR level