1.
backbone; spine; spinal column
The column of vertebrae running down the center of the back, supporting the body's structure.
背骨が曲がっている。
My spine is curved.
転んで背骨を痛めた。
I fell and hurt my spine.
姿勢が悪いと背骨に負担がかかる。
Poor posture puts strain on the spine.
2.
backbone; core; mainstay
Figuratively, the central support or foundation of something — an organization, system, or argument.
製造業はこの国の経済の背骨だ。
Manufacturing is the backbone of this country's economy.
彼は組織の背骨となる存在だ。
He is the backbone of the organization.
背骨のない計画は失敗する。
A plan without a backbone will fail.
USAGE:
A compound of 背 (back) and 骨 (bone). In its literal sense, it is the everyday word for spine. The figurative sense of 'core support' mirrors English 'backbone.'
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 背骨が曲がる (the spine curves)
- 背骨を伸ばす (to straighten the spine)
- 背骨を矯正する (to correct the spine)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 脊椎: vertebral column — the medical/anatomical term for the spine