後ろ向き
Meanings
na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
back-facing; backwards
Describes a physical orientation with one's back turned, or a direction opposite to forward. Often used for posture, seating, or movement.
Antonyms: 前向き
He sat facing backwards, looking out the window.
It's dangerous to walk backwards.
na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
backward-looking; retrogressive; negative
Describes an attitude, policy, or mindset that is resistant to change, focused on the past, or pessimistic. Often used in contrast with 前向き (forward-looking, positive).
Antonyms: 前向き
Nothing will progress with a backward-looking way of thinking.
His proposal is retrogressive and won't lead to reform.
Usage patterns
- 後ろ向きに立つto stand facing backward
He stood facing away and looked out the window.
- 〈事〉に後ろ向きだto be negative or resistant about something
The company is resistant to introducing the new system.
- 後ろ向きに座るto sit facing backward (e.g. in a train seat)
Some train seats face backward.
- 後ろ向きな考え方a backward-looking or pessimistic way of thinking
You can't move forward with such a negative way of thinking.
- 後ろ向きな発言a negative or discouraging remark
There's someone who only makes negative remarks in meetings.