背く

• Reading: そむく
• Romaji: somuku
• Kanji breakdown: 背 (hai/se/somu) — back, turn away, defy
• Pronunciation: /so.mɯ.kɯ/

Meaning

To go against; to disobey; to defy; to run counter to expectations or rules.

A Group 1 (godan) intransitive verb meaning to turn one's back on something — to disobey, betray, or act contrary to. Used for defying rules, expectations, trust, or moral principles. Carries a strong moral weight, often implying betrayal or serious defiance rather than casual disagreement.

Examples

1. 親の期待に背いて自分の道を選んだ。 I defied my parents' expectations and chose my own path.
2. 法律に背く行為は許されない。 Acts that go against the law cannot be permitted.
3. 友人の信頼に背くようなことはしたくない。 I don't want to do anything that betrays a friend's trust.

Usage Guide

Context: morality, law, relationships

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From the kanji 背 (back, spine), which combines 月 (flesh/body) with 北 (north — two people facing away from each other). The verb literally means to turn one's back on someone or something.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal