bɪˈhaɪnd ðə taɪmz
Time
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- positioned behind the current era
What does "behind the times" mean?
- old-fashioned or outdated
- not keeping up with current trends
Examples
- His views on technology are completely behind the times.
- The company's marketing strategy is behind the times — they still don't use social media.
- Don't be so behind the times; everyone uses contactless payment now.
Origin
Used since the early 19th century.
How to use it
Mildly critical expression suggesting someone has not kept pace with modern developments.
Similar expressions
outdated
old-fashioned
out of date
out of touch
Opposites
ahead of the times
cutting-edge
up to date
Related idioms
- in the long run
Over a long period of time
- better late than never
It's better to do something late than not to do it at all
- from time to time
occasionally, not regularly
- in the nick of time
Just in time; at the last possible moment
- run out of time
to have no more time left to do something
- time flies when you're having fun
Enjoyable moments seem to pass quickly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "behind the times" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.