Behindsight

/bɪˈhaɪndsaɪt/ noun

Definition

A rare term meaning hindsight; understanding of past events that wasn't apparent at the time they occurred.

Etymology

From 'behind' + 'sight,' suggesting the view one gets by looking back behind oneself at what has passed. A playful or archaic formation parallel to 'hindsight.'

Kelly Says

'Behindsight' is charming because it's grammatically logical—if 'hindsight' comes from 'hind' (rear), then 'behindsight' means the same thing more literally, showing how English words can have multiple logical formations that don't all survive.

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