English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "if anyone knew" Mean?
Learn what "if anyone knew" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
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be behind the bars by now.
This means the speaker believes they would have faced serious punishment if the truth came out.
From On One Condition, Episode 35
When do people say this?
Scene Context
The speaker says the secret would have put them in prison if anyone had known.
Usage Scenario
Use it for dramatic talk about a serious secret or crime. Behind bars is informal but strongly implies prison.
Better ways to say it
1
I'd be behind bars by now.
2
If anyone knew, I'd be behind bars by now.
3
I should be in prison by now.
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