Translation guide
The English word "bondage" has two main meanings: literal physical restraint (often with ropes or chains) and a figurative sense of being trapped or enslaved by something. This guide covers both, with a focus on natural Japanese expressions.
To describe the act of tying someone up or the state of being tied up, often in contexts like crime, escape, or BDSM.
The most common noun for 'binding' or 'tying up'. Can refer to the act or the state. Often used in compounds.
To express the idea of being in a state of servitude, oppression, or addiction, where one is not free.
縛り (shibari) is primarily physical, while 束縛 (sokubaku) is primarily psychological or social. Using 縛り for figurative bondage can sound odd unless it's a metaphor. For example, 'the bondage of addiction' is better as 依存の束縛, not 依存の縛り.
依存の束縛
the bondage of addiction
The loanword ボンデージ (bondage) is used almost exclusively for BDSM or fashion (bondage pants, etc.). It is not used for literal tying up in crime or figurative slavery. For general restraint, use 縛り or 拘束.
彼は縛りから逃れた。
He escaped from bondage.
Formal term for 'restraint' or 'confinement', often used in legal or official contexts. Implies restriction of movement, not necessarily with ropes.
容疑者は拘束された。
The suspect was placed under restraint.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'the state of being tied up'. Useful when you want to emphasize the experience.
縛られることは彼にとって恐怖だった。
Being in bondage was terrifying for him.
Specifically refers to artistic or erotic rope bondage (shibari/kinbaku). A technical term in BDSM contexts.
Use only when referring to erotic or artistic rope bondage. Not for general restraint.
緊縛は日本の伝統的な芸術です。
Kinbaku is a traditional Japanese art.
The most direct equivalent for figurative bondage. Means 'restriction', 'constraint', or 'shackles' in a psychological or social sense.
彼は過去の束縛から解放された。
He was freed from the bondage of his past.
愛は時に束縛になる。
Love can sometimes become bondage.
Stronger term meaning 'servitude' or 'subjugation'. Used for slavery or complete domination.
彼らは隷属状態に置かれていた。
They were kept in bondage.
Literally 'a captured body', meaning a state of captivity or bondage. Can be used figuratively.
彼は酒にとらわれの身だ。
He is in bondage to alcohol.
Means 'spell' or 'curse', implying a magical or psychological bondage. Often used in fantasy or metaphorical contexts.
彼女は過去の呪縛に苦しんでいる。
She is suffering from the bondage of her past.