Translation guide
The English word "constraint" covers a range of meanings from physical restrictions to social pressures and self-imposed limits. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on the nuance. This guide helps you choose the most natural expression.
To express that something is limited or restricted, often by rules, resources, or circumstances.
A general term for a restriction or limitation, often used in formal or technical contexts. It can refer to constraints on time, budget, or freedom.
We have time constraints, so let's hurry.
Due to budget constraints, we had no choice but to change the plan.
Often used for a set limit or restriction, such as a speed limit or age restriction. It implies a boundary that cannot be exceeded.
This road has a speed constraint of 50 km/h.
There is an age constraint, so those under 18 cannot enter.
A formal term for a list of restrictions or limitations, often used in contracts or specifications.
Please read the constraints in the contract carefully.
To describe a physical limitation, such as a tight space or a mechanical restriction.
Refers to physical restraint or confinement. It can also be used metaphorically for being bound by rules.
The device has a constraint on its movement.
Specifically refers to braking or damping in mechanical systems. A technical term.
To express that one feels constrained by social expectations, embarrassment, or psychological factors.
Refers to holding back out of consideration for others, often translated as 'constraint' in the sense of social reserve.
Don't feel constrained; please say anything.
He felt constrained and didn't say the truth.
Similar to 遠慮, but implies a feeling of constraint due to worrying about others' feelings or being a burden.
Implies being bound or tied down, often by rules, relationships, or social norms. Stronger than 遠慮.
To describe a constraint one places on oneself, such as a personal rule or limit.
Self-restraint or self-control. Often used when one deliberately limits one's own actions.
He has strong self-constraint.
I'm constraining myself from eating sweets.
Literally 'to suppress oneself', used for holding back emotions or desires.
It's hard to constrain one's anger.
To refer to a condition that must be satisfied, often in mathematics, science, or logic.
A formal term for a constraint condition, used in optimization, programming, or theoretical contexts.
This problem has several constraints.
Used in physics or mathematics for boundary conditions or constraints. Less common than 制約条件.
Find a solution that satisfies the constraints.
制約 (seiyaku) is a broader term for any kind of restriction or limitation, often abstract. 制限 (seigen) implies a specific, often numerical or rule-based limit. For example, a time constraint is 時間の制約, while a speed limit is 速度制限.
There is a time constraint.
Please observe the speed limit.
When talking about feeling constrained in social situations, 制約 is too formal and impersonal. Use 遠慮 or 気兼ね instead.
Please don't feel constrained.
He was put in a straitjacket (a physical constraint).
この機械には制動装置がついている。
This machine has a constraint mechanism (brake).
Please come visit without feeling constrained.
彼は会社の規則に束縛されていると感じている。
He feels constrained by the company rules.