Translation guide
A light source placed behind a subject, often used in photography, displays, or to create silhouette effects. This guide covers how to express the concept of backlighting in Japanese, from technical terms to everyday descriptions.
Referring to a light placed behind a subject for visual effect, such as creating a silhouette or rim light.
The most common term for backlight in photography and everyday situations. It literally means 'reverse light' and is used when light comes from behind the subject.
When you take a photo in backlight, the subject can become dark.
A loanword from English, often used in technical contexts like photography, videography, or display technology. Less common in casual conversation than 逆光.
I used a backlight to emphasize the outline of the subject.
Literally 'halo' or 'aura', often used metaphorically for a backlight that creates a divine or dramatic effect. Not a technical term for backlight.
It's a photo that looks like a halo is shining.
The light source behind an LCD screen or display panel that illuminates it.
Describing something that is illuminated from behind, often creating a silhouette.
Referring to a built-in light behind keys or buttons for visibility in the dark.
逆光 (gyakkou) is the native Japanese word and is used broadly for any backlighting situation, especially in photography and daily life. バックライト (bakkuraito) is a loanword and is more common in technical fields like displays, electronics, and professional lighting. For screen backlights, always use バックライト.
My face became dark because of the backlight.
The smartphone's backlight broke.
The lifespan of an LCD backlight is about 50,000 hours.
Since the light is hitting from behind, I can't see the face well.
If you turn on the backlight function, you can see the letters even in dark places.