IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishthe power behind the throne
Meaning: Someone with no official title who secretly controls a leader.
Example: “The senator's chief of staff is the real power behind the throne.”
Origin: The image is of an adviser standing behind a monarch. A version is found in the 18th century; the modern phrase is common from the 19th century.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Une éminence grise Literally: A gray eminence
More English idioms
- fall into someone's lap To come to someone without any effort.
- fire in the belly Strong ambition and drive.
- the oldest trick in the book A very familiar trick that should not fool anyone.
- a slippery slope A small step that leads to worse and worse consequences.
- snug as a bug in a rug Very warm and comfortable.
- breathe down someone's neck To watch someone too closely, or to be close behind them.
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