expression, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
always behind; reactive; too late
Describes a state of constantly being one step behind, reacting to events rather than acting proactively. Often used for planning, responses, or management that lag behind the situation.
彼の対応はいつも後手後手だ。
His responses are always too late.
後手後手の対策では問題は解決しない。
Reactive measures won't solve the problem.