1.
behind the scenes; in secret; covertly
Doing something out of public view or without others knowing. Often implies hidden or underhanded actions.
裏で何かが動いている。
Something is going on behind the scenes.
裏で悪口を言うのはやめてほしい。
I wish you'd stop talking badly about people behind their backs.
表では笑顔だが、裏で糸を引いているのは彼だ。
He smiles on the surface, but he's the one pulling the strings behind the scenes.
USAGE:
Often contrasted with 表で (openly, on the surface). Can describe both neutral behind-the-scenes activity and negative covert behavior. Common in discussions of politics, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal relationships.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 裏で動く (to act behind the scenes)
- 裏で糸を引く (to pull strings behind the scenes)
- 裏で悪口を言う (to badmouth behind someone's back)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 陰で: in the shadows, behind someone's back — similar meaning, often more negative
- 水面下で: under the surface — used for negotiations or activities conducted out of public view