あなたの後ろ
anata no ushiro
The English phrase "behind you" is translated into Japanese as あなたの後ろ (anata no ushiro).
This phrase describes the physical location at the back of a person.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of anata (you), the possessive particle no (of) and ushiro (back/behind).
How does it change in a sentence?
To describe the location of something being behind a person or object, you can add the particle ni to the word ushiro to form 後ろに (behind / at the back of).
How do you pronounce it?
anata no ushiro
When do people say it?
If you want to informally tell someone that there is someone behind them, you can say Ushiro ni iru yo.
Did you know?
- Japanese speakers rarely use anata in the phrase anata no ushiro during real conversations. They prefer to use the person's name or omit the word 'you' entirely to avoid sounding confrontational.
- In Japanese horror cinema and folklore, the space ushiro is considered a prime location for spirits to linger. This creates a cultural association between being 'behind someone' and a feeling of dread.
- The word ushiro is the basis for ushiro-sugata, a term for a person's figure as they walk away. In Japanese art and literature, this specific view is often used to symbolize longing or a sense of loss.
Examples in context
- 私はあなたの後ろよ。I'm behind you.This sentence is useful for stating your location relative to the listener using あなたの後ろ.Tatoeba #8764469 by small_snow, translation #6626911 by Schuager
- あなたの後ろに誰かいます。anata no ushiro ni dareka imasu.There is someone behind you.
- あなたの後ろの窓を開けてください。anata no ushiro no mado o akete kudasai.Please open the window behind you.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Ren notices a bug on Himari's shoulder.
- 蓮 Ren陽葵、動かないで！Himari, ugokanai de!Himari, don't move!
- 陽葵 Himariどうしたの？Dou shita no?What's wrong?
- 蓮 Renあなたの後ろに虫がいるよ。Anata no ushiro ni mushi ga iru yo.There is a bug behind you.
- 陽葵 Himariえっ！早く取って！E! Hayaku totte!What! Get it off quickly!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
