Translation guide
Describes actions or events that happen out of public view, often in preparation for a main event. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with set phrases, adverbs, or descriptive verbs.
To describe work, preparations, or activities done privately, away from the audience or public eye.
Literally 'at the back of the stage'. The most direct equivalent, used for both literal theater and figurative hidden work.
舞台裏では多くのスタッフが働いています。
Many staff members are working behind the scenes.
交渉は舞台裏で進められた。
The negotiations were carried out behind the scenes.
A shorter, more casual way to say 'behind the scenes' or 'in the background', often implying secrecy.
彼は裏でいろいろと手を回している。
He's pulling strings behind the scenes.
Implies actions done secretly or behind someone's back, often with a negative nuance.
陰で悪口を言うのはよくない。
It's not good to talk behind someone's back.
Means 'secretly' or 'in private', suitable for actions done without others knowing.
彼らは密かに計画を進めていた。
They were advancing their plan behind the scenes.
To describe someone who works without recognition, providing essential support.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'unsung hero' or 'person who works behind the scenes'. Literally 'a strong person under the veranda'.
彼は縁の下の力持ちとしてチームを支えている。
He supports the team as an unsung hero, working behind the scenes.
Refers to backstage staff or people who work behind the scenes in theater, events, or any operation.
To refer to the physical area behind a stage.
The noun form meaning 'backstage' or 'behind the scenes' as a location.
舞台裏を見学しました。
We toured the backstage area.
舞台裏 (butaiura) is neutral and often used for professional or organizational contexts. 裏 (ura) is more casual and can imply secrecy. 陰 (kage) often carries a negative nuance of doing something behind someone's back.
裏方の仕事も大切です。
Behind-the-scenes work is also important.