Translation guide
A 'back number' refers to a previous issue of a magazine, journal, or periodical. In Japanese, this is expressed with specific terms depending on the context, such as バックナンバー for general use or 既刊 for published volumes.
バックナンバー
back number (of a magazine)
Referring to an older issue of a regularly published magazine, journal, or similar publication.
The most common and direct equivalent, used in everyday conversation and commercial contexts. It is a loanword from English.
この雑誌のバックナンバーはありますか？
Do you have back numbers of this magazine?
バックナンバーをオンラインで注文した。
I ordered a back number online.
A more formal term meaning 'already published issues', often used in publishing or library contexts. It can refer to back numbers collectively.
Specifically means 'previous issue' (the one immediately before the current). Not a general term for any back number.
The English phrase 'back number' can also refer to a song that is not the latest release or an old item of clothing. In Japanese, these are expressed differently: for music, use 昔の曲 (むかしのきょく) or 旧譜 (きゅうふ); for clothing, use 型落ち (かたおち) or 旧モデル (きゅうモデル). Do not use バックナンバー for these meanings.
We also handle back numbers.
The feature in the previous issue was very interesting.