cover (your) back

British, American & Australian, American & Australian, very informal!

to make sure that you cannot be blamed or criticized later for something you have done.

The race organizers cover their backs by saying they can't take responsibility for any injuries.

I'm gonna cover my ass and get written permission before I go.

• put in their place
• put in the picture
• put in the shade
• put into service
• put in your place
• put it on the line
• put lead in pencil
• put lead in your pencil
• put life in hands
• put life in someone's hands
• put life on the line
• put mind at ease
• put mind at rest
• put mind to it
• put money on someone
• put money on something
• put money where mouth is
• put money where your mouth is
• put neck on the block
• put neck on the line
• put nose out of joint
• put oar in
• put off stride
• put off their stride
• put off the scent