Translation guide
The English word "bail" has two main meanings: the legal concept of temporary release from custody, and the action of removing water from a boat. It can also refer to the handle of a bucket or pail. This guide focuses on the first two meanings, which are most relevant for learners.
To express the concept of bail as a sum of money or condition that allows a person to be released from jail while awaiting trial.
The standard legal term for bail. Can be used as a noun or with する to mean 'release on bail'.
To express the action of scooping water out of a boat or other vessel.
The most natural way to say 'bail out water'. Literally 'scoop out water'.
ボートの水を汲み出さなければならない。
We have to bail out the boat.
The English phrase 'bail out' can also mean to rescue a company or economy with financial aid. In Japanese, this is 救済 (きゅうさい) or 財政援助 (ざいせいえんじょ), not 保釈.
彼は保釈金を払って釈放された。
He was released after paying bail.
裁判官は保釈を認めた。
The judge granted bail.
Specifically refers to the bail money itself.
保釈金は100万円に設定された。
Bail was set at one million yen.
Means 'release' from custody. Often used in contexts where bail is implied, but not a direct translation of 'bail'.
Not a direct equivalent of 'bail'; use 保釈 for the concept of bail.
彼は保釈されて釈放された。
He was released on bail.
A traditional term for bailing water from a boat, often using a specific tool called an あか汲み (bailer). Rare in modern conversation.
漁師はあか汲みで船の水を出した。
The fisherman bailed out the boat with a bailer.