A backseat driver
/ə ˌbæksiːt ˈdraɪvə/informalUK · US
What does “A backseat driver” mean?
A backseat driver means someone who gives unwanted advice or criticism while another person does the task
A passenger who keeps telling you when to brake may be a backseat driver. They do not have to be sitting in the back seat.
The phrase also works beyond cars. Someone who criticises every step of a job without taking responsibility may be accused of backseat driving.
When do people say it?
Usually a complaint about someone interfering. It can describe a passenger commenting on driving or someone trying to control work they are not doing.
“Please stop being a backseat driver; I know where to turn.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The phrase pictures a passenger giving the driver instructions. That behaviour also provides the image for interference in other people’s tasks.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “A backseat driver” in other languages?
Related idioms
- A Monday morning quarterback, someone who criticises decisions after seeing the result
Last updated 2026-11-13