Translation guide
The English word 'backup' can refer to a reserve copy of data, a substitute person or thing, or the act of supporting someone. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To refer to a copy of digital data kept for safety, or the act of making such a copy.
The most common and direct loanword for data backup. Used as both a noun and a suru-verb.
データのバックアップを取ってください。
Please make a backup of the data.
毎日バックアップしています。
I back up every day.
Means 'spare' or 'reserve'. Can be used for backup copies, but is less specific to digital data.
予備のファイルを保存しておく。
Keep a backup file saved.
To refer to a person or item kept ready in case the main one is unavailable.
General word for substitute or replacement. Can be used for people or things.
彼が病気なら、代わりを探さないと。
If he's sick, we need to find a backup.
このペンが壊れたときのために、代わりを持ってきて。
Bring a backup pen in case this one breaks.
Often used for a backup person, especially in sports or work contexts. Implies someone waiting on standby.
Can also mean a spare item kept as backup, like a spare key or battery.
To express giving support or reinforcement to someone, often in a collaborative context.
Formal word for support or backing. Often used in business, technical, or military contexts.
技術支援が必要です。
We need technical backup.
Common loanword for support. Can be used for emotional, technical, or logistical backup.
Literally 'become a backing shield'. Means to provide strong backing or support, often from a position of power.
彼は有力者の後ろ盾を得た。
He got backup from an influential person.
While バックアップ can sometimes mean support, it is primarily used for data. For supporting a person, use サポート or 支援 instead.
控えの選手が準備している。
The backup player is getting ready.
I keep a backup key under the doormat.
いつもサポートしてくれてありがとう。
Thanks for always backing me up.