Is saying "back to back" an AmE or BrE usage [duplicate]

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I have been often intrigued by the phrase "back-to-back". Referring to "back" is reminiscent of the rear of the human body.

I usually hear-

Evan M · Accepted Answer · 2015-01-23 17:05:29Z

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I see and use the phrase often as an American, and this cursory search of a UK news source shows it's common there too:

It's common in both dialects and I've never thought of it as anatomical.

answered Jan 23, 2015 at 17:05

Evan M

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The usage originated in the US according to the Oxford Dictionary but they also register in British English in examples such as back-to-back semi-finals. (word-detective.com/2010/03/back-to-back)
– Misti
Commented Jan 23, 2015 at 17:18
The phrase has always made me picture two people standing, er, back-to-back.
– Hot Licks
Commented Jan 23, 2015 at 17:42
Me too @Hot Licks, which is why I deprecate the ungodly phrase back-to-back-to-back.
– pazzo
Commented Jan 23, 2015 at 19:57

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ATHENA · Accepted Answer · 2015-01-23 17:54:58Z

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Americans certainly use back-to-back in reference to simple physical arrangements such as back-to-back seats in a railway car.

answered Jan 23, 2015 at 17:54

ATHENA

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