Translation guide
The English word "clutches" can refer to a tight grasp, a critical situation, or a mechanical device. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
To express physically holding something tightly or being in someone's grip.
To express being under someone's control or influence, often in a negative sense.
Literally 'in the palm of one's hand'. Means to be under someone's control.
彼は敵の手中にあった。
He was in the clutches of the enemy.
To refer to the clutch pedal or mechanism in a vehicle.
Do not directly translate 'clutches' as a plural noun into Japanese. The figurative meaning requires a phrase like 手中にある, not a single word.
彼は借金の手中にある。
He is in the clutches of debt.
To grip or clasp tightly. Commonly used for holding objects firmly in one's hand.
彼はハンドルを握り締めた。
He clutched the steering wheel.
To grab or seize. Can imply a sudden or forceful clutch.
彼女は私の腕を掴んだ。
She clutched my arm.
To hold firmly. A natural phrase for a steady clutch.
子供は母親の手をしっかり握った。
The child clutched his mother's hand.
To be under someone's domination or control. More formal.
その地域は独裁者の支配下にある。
The region is in the clutches of a dictator.
Similar to 手中, but more literary. Implies complete control.
彼は悪の掌中に陥った。
He fell into the clutches of evil.
The standard loanword for a vehicle's clutch.
クラッチを踏んでギアを変える。
Step on the clutch and change gears.
Specifically the clutch pedal.
クラッチペダルが重い。
The clutch pedal is stiff.