Translation guide
The area behind the stage in a theater, or the hidden, private side of an organization or activity.
The area behind the stage in a theater, including dressing rooms and wings.
Refers specifically to the dressing rooms and backstage area in a theater. Commonly used in theater contexts.
The private, often secret, workings of an organization, event, or activity.
楽屋 (gakuya) specifically refers to dressing rooms and the immediate backstage area in a theater. 舞台裏 (butaiura) is broader, meaning the entire area behind the stage, and is also used metaphorically for behind-the-scenes activities in any context.
The actors are preparing backstage.
Literally 'behind the stage'. Can refer to the physical backstage area, but also used metaphorically for behind-the-scenes activities.
The staff are bustling around backstage.
Loanword from English, used in some contexts but less common than native terms.
I got a backstage pass.
Used metaphorically to mean 'behind the scenes' or 'backstage' in a non-theater context, such as politics or business.
To know the backstage of politics.
Refers to people who work behind the scenes, such as stagehands or support staff. Can also mean the backstage area itself.
He supports the event as a backstage worker.
Literally 'under the water surface', meaning behind-the-scenes or under-the-table dealings. Often used in political or business contexts.
Backstage negotiations are ongoing.