Translation guide
Describes something happening behind the scenes, not in the foreground or not drawing attention. Covers literal visual backgrounds, figurative behind-the-scenes activity, and unobtrusive presence.
To say that someone is working or something is happening without being noticed or publicly visible.
Literally 'in the shadows', this is the most common way to say someone is doing something behind the scenes, often with a nuance of secret support or effort.
He is working hard behind the scenes.
I'm grateful to those who supported me behind the scenes.
Means 'behind the scenes' or 'backstage', often implying something is done secretly or in a hidden manner, sometimes with a negative connotation.
I don't know what's going on behind the scenes.
Literally 'backstage', used for theatrical or event contexts, or figuratively for behind-the-scenes work.
Backstage, the staff were busily moving around.
To describe something that appears in the background of an image or scene.
The standard way to say 'in the background' for visual contexts. 背景 means 'background'.
A mountain can be seen in the background of the photo.
A cat appeared in the background of the video.
Means 'behind' or 'in the back', used for physical positioning. Less specific than 背景 but natural for casual description.
You can see Mt. Fuji in the background.
To say that a computer program or process is running in the background without user interaction.
To describe a person staying in the background, not seeking the spotlight.
Means 'so as not to stand out', used when someone deliberately stays in the background.
He always stays in the background during meetings.
Means 'modestly' or 'reservedly', implying staying in the background out of humility.
She behaved modestly, staying in the background.
陰で (kage de) often implies positive, supportive behind-the-scenes actions, while 裏で (ura de) can carry a nuance of secrecy or underhandedness. However, both can be used neutrally depending on context.
work hard behind the scenes (positive)
pull strings behind the scenes (often negative)
This program is syncing data in the background.