Translation guide
The English word "backing" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: support (financial, moral, or political), a musical accompaniment, a physical backing layer, and the act of moving backwards. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
Expressing financial, moral, or political support for a person, project, or idea.
General term for support, backing, or aid. Can be used for financial, moral, or logistical support. Common in news and formal contexts.
His plan received a lot of backing.
Specifically refers to backing or sponsorship, often from an organization or influential person. Common in political or event contexts.
He ran for office with the backing of a major corporation.
Means support in the sense of approval or endorsement. Often used for public or political backing.
The policy has the backing of the public.
Loanword from English. Used for backing in the sense of support, especially in business or technical contexts. Can also mean data backup.
With the backing of my boss, the project succeeded.
Literally 'shield behind'. Refers to a powerful backer or patron. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts.
He has a powerful backer.
Referring to instrumental or vocal accompaniment for a singer or main performer.
Standard term for musical accompaniment. Used for any instrument or backing track.
She sang with piano backing.
Specifically refers to backing vocals or a backing chorus.
Refers to a backing band, the group of musicians supporting a lead singer.
Describing a material layer attached to the back of something for strength, protection, or decoration.
Refers to lining or backing fabric, such as in clothing or curtains.
These curtains have a light-blocking backing.
The act of backing something with a material, or the backing itself. Often used in crafts, art, or construction.
Loanword used in technical or craft contexts, such as for the backing of a rug or sticker.
The act of moving backwards, especially in a vehicle.
支援 (shien) is the most general term for backing/support, covering financial, material, and moral support. 後援 (kouen) specifically implies sponsorship or patronage, often from an organization. 支持 (shiji) is about approval or endorsement, commonly used in public opinion or political contexts.
Do not use 裏 (ura) or 背 (se) to mean backing in the sense of support. These refer to physical back or reverse side. Use 支援, 後援, or バックアップ instead.
The backing vocals livened up the song.
He plays guitar in the backing band for a famous singer.
絵を保護するために裏打ちをした。
I added a backing to protect the painting.
Please peel off the backing before applying this sticker.
Please back up here.