Translation guide
Describes a space that is too small, crowded, or uncomfortable, or a body position that feels tight and restricted.
Express that a room, vehicle, or area feels tight and lacks enough space.
The most common adjective for a space that is physically small or cramped. Can be used for rooms, houses, cars, etc.
This room is cramped, isn't it?
It's so cramped inside the train that I can't move.
Emphasizes that a space is too small for its purpose, often used for living or working spaces.
This apartment has become cramped.
Colloquial onomatopoeic expression meaning packed tight or jammed, like in a crowded train.
The morning train is always cramped.
Stronger than 狭い, conveys a feeling of being oppressively cramped and uncomfortable.
The basement is so cramped that I can't stay long.
Describe a posture or situation where the body is squeezed or unable to stretch.
Literally 'body is tight', used when you feel physically cramped, such as in a small seat or when wearing tight clothes.
This chair is so small that I feel cramped.
Staying in the same position for a long time makes my body feel cramped.
Means 'cannot stretch out limbs', used when a space is too small to extend arms or legs.
Can also describe a seat or space that feels too small for the body.
Express a sense of being mentally or emotionally cramped, lacking freedom.
狭い (semai) refers to physical smallness of a space. 窮屈 (kyuukutsu) implies a feeling of tightness or restriction, either physical or psychological. Use 狭い for objective size, 窮屈 for subjective discomfort.
This room is small but not cramped.
In economy class on the plane, I can't stretch out and feel cramped.
後部座席は狭くて足が痛くなった。
The back seat was cramped and my legs started hurting.
Sometimes I feel cramped when I'm at my parents' house.