Translation guide
The English word "backlash" refers to a strong negative reaction by a group of people against something. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on the context, such as public opinion, mechanical recoil, or figurative pushback.
To express a widespread, often intense, adverse response from society, a community, or a group against a recent event, decision, or trend.
The most common and versatile term for backlash, meaning opposition or pushback. It can be used for public, political, or personal reactions.
Public backlash against the policy intensified.
His remarks caused a huge backlash within the company.
Refers to a reactionary movement or counter-trend, often in politics or social change. It implies a swing back against progressive changes.
There was a backlash after the reforms.
Literally "voices of criticism," this phrase is often used in news to describe public backlash or outcry.
There is a backlash against the new law.
The direct loanword from English. It is understood but less common than native terms. Often used in specific contexts like social movements or gaming.
The backlash against feminism became a topic of discussion.
To describe the physical kickback or jarring reverse motion of a machine, tool, or object.
Used for physical recoil, such as the kick of a gun or the reaction force in machinery.
When you fire a gun, the backlash pushes your shoulder.
In mechanical engineering, this refers to backlash as the play or looseness between gears. Very technical.
To express a negative reaction or resistance from a smaller group, such as within a team, family, or personal relationship.
Same word as above, but used for personal or small-scale opposition.
I faced backlash from my parents about my career path.
Means resistance or opposition. It can be used for backlash in the sense of pushback against an idea or plan.
反発 (はんぱつ) is the general term for backlash as opposition or pushback, while 反動 (はんどう) often implies a reactionary movement or a swing of the pendulum, especially in political or social contexts. For physical recoil, 反動 is standard.
to provoke a backlash
reactionary forces
Do not translate "backlash" as 後ろの打撃 or similar literal phrases. They are not used in Japanese. Use the terms provided based on context.
ギアの遊びが大きすぎると、正確な動きができない。
If the gear backlash is too large, precise movement is impossible.
新しいルールに社員から抵抗があった。
There was backlash from employees against the new rule.