背中

• Reading: せなか
• Romaji: senaka
• Kanji breakdown: 背 (se) — back, height; 中 (naka) — middle, inside
• Pronunciation: /se.na.ka/

Meaning

Back (of the body). The rear surface of the torso.

Compound noun from 背 (back/height) and 中 (middle/inside). Different from 背 alone which can mean height or stature. 背中を押す means to give someone a push (also figuratively: to encourage someone).

Examples

1. 背中が痛くてよく眠れなかった。 My back hurt and I couldn't sleep well.
2. 子供の背中に日焼け止めを塗った。 I put sunscreen on the child's back.
3. 友達が背中を押してくれた。 My friend gave me a push of encouragement.

Usage Guide

Context: body parts, health, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 背 (back, height) and 中 (middle). Specifies the middle area of the back.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal