Translation guide
How to express the physical action of leaning back, reclining, or tilting backward in Japanese.
Describing the act of tilting one's torso backward, often while seated or standing.
Literally 'fall backward', but commonly used for leaning back heavily or reclining. Can imply a sudden or relaxed motion depending on context.
He leaned back in his chair and fell over.
Adjusting a seat to tilt backward, like in a car or airplane.
Standard way to say 'recline the seat'. Used for car seats, airplane seats, etc.
Relaxed, informal posture of leaning back in a chair.
The English phrase 'lean back' does not have a single direct equivalent. Choose the expression based on the specific action and nuance.
More deliberate: 'tilt one's back backward'. Used when consciously leaning back, e.g., in exercise or stretching.
Lean your back backward during the stretch.
To bend backward, often suddenly or dramatically. Can be used for dodging, laughing, or leaning back in surprise.
He leaned back with a roar of laughter.
To lean back against something for support. Emphasizes resting on a backrest or wall.
I leaned back against the sofa and relaxed.
May I recline my seat on the plane?
Specifically 'tilt the backrest'. More precise than シートを倒す.
I reclined the backrest and slept.
To lean back arrogantly or with an air of superiority. Often negative nuance, like 'lording it over'.
He was leaning back arrogantly in the meeting.
To lean back heavily against a chair. Neutral, descriptive.
Exhausted, I leaned back in my chair.