背靠背 (bēi) — (literally) back-to-back (physical posture); (figuratively) without each other's knowledge, separately (of actions done secretly)
Definition
Literally 'back-to-back' (physical posture), also used figuratively for two parties acting separately, without coordinating or telling each other — like making deals or signing contracts behind one another's back.
(literally) back-to-back (physical posture)(figuratively) without each other's knowledgeseparately (of actions done secretly)
Examples
- 背靠背。Wǒ men liǎng gè rén bēi zuò zhe xiū xi.The two of us sat back-to-back to rest.
- 背靠背，。Tā men bēi zuò le liǎng cì mǎi mai, shuí dōu bú gào sù shuí.They each made two deals without the other knowing.
- 背靠背，。Zhè liǎng jiā gōng sī bēi qiān le hé tong, hù xiāng bù zhī dào.These two companies signed contracts without each other's knowledge.
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