Japanese · Body & Health
背中
senaka
Back (body)
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The rear surface of the human trunk. Back pain (腰痛 youtsuu) is one of the most common health complaints among Japanese adults due to desk work and long commutes.
Example
長時間座っていたので背中が痛いです。
My back hurts from sitting for a long time.
Etymology
背中 (senaka) combines the kanji 背 (se), meaning 'back', with 中 (naka), which denotes 'middle' or 'between'. This term has been used to describe the anatomical back since ancient times.
How & Where It’s Used
背中 is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, suitable for both formal and informal settings. It is universally recognized across Japan.