Meaning
Literally means 'back door' or 'rear entrance.' In its primary sense, it refers to a physical door at the back of a building. It also has an important figurative meaning referring to unofficial channels, connections, or illegal means of gaining access or advantage, similar to English 'backdoor' or 'pulling strings.'
Usage
In everyday conversation, 后门 commonly refers to the physical back entrance of a building or courtyard. In discussions about corruption, nepotism, or computer security, it takes on the figurative meaning of illicit access or unfair advantage gained through personal connections (关系). The phrase 走后门 (zǒu hòu mén) specifically means to use backdoor connections to get things done.
Examples
- 01垃圾车从后门进来收垃圾。.The garbage truck comes in through the back door to collect trash.
- 02他没有通过考试，而是走后门进了那家公司。, .He didn't pass the exam, but used connections to get into that company.
Characters
Measure words
- 扇一扇后门
- 道一道后门
Common collocations
- 走后门to use backdoor connections
- 开后门to provide backdoor access/favors
- 后门程序backdoor program (computing)
- 从后门进to enter through the back door
Antonyms
Origin
Compound word combining 后 (back/rear) and 门 (door). The figurative meaning developed from the idea that deals done through the back door are hidden from public view, unlike legitimate transactions at the front entrance.