Translation guide
Describes legs that curve outward at the knees. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the term がに股, which can refer to both the physical condition and the stance. Other expressions exist but are less common or more technical.
To describe a person whose legs are bowed, curving outward at the knees.
The most common and natural term for bowlegs. It can be used as a noun or na-adjective. Often used in everyday conversation.
彼はがに股だ。
He has bowlegs.
がに股の人は意外と多い。
There are surprisingly many people with bowlegs.
Literally 'O legs', a common term in medical or beauty contexts. Often used when discussing leg alignment or cosmetic concerns.
O脚を矯正する方法を教えてください。
Please tell me how to correct bowlegs.
Medical term for genu varum (bowlegs). Used by doctors or in technical literature.
内反膝は小児によく見られる。
Bowlegs are often seen in young children.
To describe a posture where the legs are spread and knees point outward, often associated with certain sports or habits.
Also used for the stance itself, not just the physical trait. Common in sports like sumo or baseball.
がに股で立つと安定する。
Standing with your legs apart (like bowlegs) gives you stability.
相撲取りはがに股の構えをする。
Sumo wrestlers take a bowlegged stance.
Phrase meaning 'to become bowlegged' or 'to assume a bowlegged stance'.
疲れるとがに股になる癖がある。
I have a habit of standing bowlegged when I'm tired.
がに股 is the general, everyday term and can refer to both the condition and the stance. O脚 is more clinical and often used in medical or beauty contexts. In casual conversation, がに股 is preferred.
がに股を気にしている。
I'm self-conscious about my bowlegs.
O脚用のサポーターを買った。
I bought a support for bowlegs.
Avoid directly translating 'bowlegs' as 弓脚 (yumikyaku) or similar. These are not standard Japanese and will not be understood.
うちの子はがに股だけど、医者は正常だと言った。
My child has bowlegs, but the doctor said it's normal.
彼女はO脚を気にして、矯正したいと思っている。
She's worried about her bowlegs and wants to fix them.