back burner

NOUN

reduced priority

Synonyms

WEAK

abeyance cold storage limbo suspension

Antonyms

WEAK

front burner

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Retirement savings went on the back burner at age 50 when Ed Myrick’s son was born.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

“Today’s signal: that’s on the back burner now, not that it’s ever gotten off the ground,” Haines said in a note.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

In the near-term for investors, the summit could keep concerns about U.S.-China on the back burner since both leaders are focused on stability.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

Right now, with all the discussion about the new rules, and the more entertaining racing this year, this particular topic is on the back burner.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

On the back burner, a pan of polenta simmered and popped.

From "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon