裏

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 裏 is read うら and is a noun for the reverse or inner side of an object, or the area behind a reference point such as a building.
• Basic usage: It covers both the reverse face of a flat object and a location at the back of a place.
  • 紙の裏に連絡先を書きました。 refers to the reverse side of the paper, while 駅の裏には静かな公園があります。 locates a park behind the station.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• The side opposite 表
  • 紙の裏 is the face opposite 表(おもて), the front side. It means the paper's reverse surface, not merely the space behind the sheet.
• Area behind a place
  • 駅の裏 refers to the area behind the station building. 裏 is therefore not limited to the surface of an object.
• 裏 and 後ろ
  • 後ろ(うしろ) broadly gives a direction or position behind something. 裏 more strongly presents the reverse face or rear area in contrast with a visible front.