Translation guide
The English word 'buttress' has two main uses: a physical architectural support and a metaphorical sense of supporting or reinforcing an idea or argument. This guide covers how to express both in Japanese.
A structure built against a wall to support or reinforce it.
The standard architectural term for a buttress. Used in technical and everyday contexts.
To support or strengthen an idea, argument, or system.
Means 'to reinforce' or 'to strengthen'. Commonly used for arguments, evidence, or systems.
彼の証言が私たちの主張を補強した。
His testimony buttressed our argument.
Do not directly translate 'buttress' as a verb using architectural terms like 控え壁にする. Use the figurative verbs listed above.
その教会の控え壁はゴシック様式だ。
The buttresses of that church are Gothic style.
Loanword from English, commonly used in architectural contexts, especially for flying buttresses.
フライング・バットレスはゴシック建築の特徴だ。
Flying buttresses are a feature of Gothic architecture.
General word for a support or prop. Can be used for buttress-like structures but is less specific.
壁に支柱を追加して補強した。
We reinforced the wall by adding supports.
Means 'to back up' or 'to support with evidence'. Often used for data or facts supporting a claim.
データがその理論を裏付けている。
The data buttresses the theory.
General verb meaning 'to support'. Can be used figuratively but is less specific than 補強する.
彼の努力がチームを支えた。
His efforts buttressed the team.
Means 'to strengthen' or 'to fortify'. Can be used for arguments or systems.
新しい政策が経済を強化した。
The new policy buttressed the economy.