Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.

Words Kanji Guides About

背筋を伸ばす (せすじをのばす) Japanese meaning | Kotomora

背せ筋すじを伸のばす

Meanings

1

expression, godan verb (-su)

straighten one's back; sit/stand up straight

Literally 'stretch the back muscles'. Used for physically correcting posture, and figuratively for adopting a serious, dignified attitude.

背せ筋すじを伸のばして座すわると、腰こしが楽らくになる。
Sitting with your back straight eases your lower back.
面めん接せつの前まえは、背せ筋すじを伸

の

ばし

て

堂どう

々どう

と

歩ある

こう

。

Before the interview, walk tall with your back straight.

Kanji

背stature, height, back
筋muscle, sinew, tendon
伸expand, stretch, extend

Similar words

姿し勢せいを正ただす
More formal; often used for correcting one's overall posture or attitude, not just the back.
胸むねを張はる
Focuses on pushing the chest out; often implies confidence or pride, while 背筋を伸ばす is more about straightening the spine.

Etymology

Compound of 背筋 (back muscles/spine) + を + 伸ばす (to stretch/extend). The figurative sense derives from the physical act of straightening one's posture as a sign of seriousness or resolve.