back at somebody?

Question

does this mean to support somebody's idea or decision? thanks a lot.

Khoff · Accepted Answer

Is there some context?  To "back somebody" means to support their idea or decision.  To "get back at somebody" means to retaliate or get revenge.  It's hard to know, without context, which of these would apply, since "back at somebody" by itself is not relly either one.

Clive · Answer

Hi guys,

I have a vague recollection that in current street slang you can say this.

A: You're ******* stupid.

B: (Right) back at you. (meaning 'I am sending the same comment back in your direction')

Clive

Philip · Answer

CliveHi guys,

I have a vague recollection that in current street slang you can say this.

A: You're ******* stupid.

B: (Right) back at you. (meaning 'I am sending the same comment back in your direction')

Clive

I've also heard it in more sophisticated situations, and it is usually (there) something kinder and gentler. Two colleagues who have worked hard and successfully on a project for the firm: one says, "you did a great job, Bob"; the other responds with, "back at you".

Khoff · Answer

Thanks, guys -- I had that usage vaguely in the back of my mind and couldn't quite identify it.  So in this context it's like "the same to you."

Anonymous · Answer

Well, I guess, it should be "the same to you." My context is like this: I wrote an email to a professor, which I ended with a line "I wish you a happiness in this great season!" And the professor replied with "Back at you, lad. etc, etc, ..."

KhoffThanks, guys -- I had that usage vaguely in the back of my mind and couldn't quite identify it. So in this context it's like "the same to you."

back at somebody?

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