裏(うら)で

Usage

Often contrasted with 表(おもて)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(うら)で動(うご)く (to act behind the scenes)
• 裏(うら)で糸(いと)を引(ひ)く (to pull strings behind the scenes)
• 裏(うら)で悪口(わるくち)を言(い)う (to badmouth behind someone's back)

Similar words

• 陰(かげ)で: in the shadows, behind someone's back — similar meaning, often more negative
• 水面下(すいめんか)で: under the surface — used for negotiations or activities conducted out of public view