Translation guide
The English word "anchor" has several distinct meanings, from a physical device for boats to a metaphorical source of stability, a news presenter, and more. This guide covers the most common uses for learners.
The heavy object used to keep a boat or ship in place.
The standard word for a ship's anchor. Used in both technical and everyday contexts.
The ship dropped anchor in the harbor.
Weigh anchor and set sail.
Loanword from English, commonly used in sailing and marine contexts, especially in compound terms.
Hoist the anchor.
A person or thing that provides stability, security, or emotional support.
Means 'support' or 'pillar'. Often used for a person who provides emotional or psychological stability.
She is the anchor of the family.
Literally 'the rope one relies on'. An idiomatic expression for a last resort or sole source of support, similar to 'lifeline' or 'anchor'.
The main presenter of a news program who coordinates reports.
The last runner in a relay race.
The standard term for the anchor leg or anchor runner in track and field.
He ran the anchor leg of the relay.
The clickable text in a hyperlink.
A major store in a shopping mall that attracts customers.
錨 (いかり) is the traditional Japanese word and is used in most contexts. アンカー is a loanword often used in sailing jargon or compound terms like アンカーロープ (anchor rope). For everyday speech, 錨 is preferred.
Do not use 錨 to mean a person who provides emotional stability. It will sound strange. Use 支え or other metaphorical expressions instead.
She has been my anchor through tough times.
The ship dropped anchor near the island.
His presence is an emotional anchor for me.
He is my anchor (my only hope).
Literally 'central pillar'. Refers to the mainstay or breadwinner of a family. Can be used metaphorically for a central supporting figure.
My father is the anchor of the family.
He is the anchor man for that program.
Gender-neutral term for a news anchor. Rarely used; キャスター is preferred.
She is an experienced anchor person.
Pass the baton to the anchor.