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.
時間の制約があるので、急ぎましょう。
We have time constraints, so let's hurry.
予算の制約で、計画を変更せざるを得なかった。
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.
この道路は速度制限が50キロです。
This road has a speed constraint of 50 km/h.
年齢制限があるので、18歳未満は入れません。
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.
契約書の制限事項をよくお読みください。
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.
その装置は動きに拘束がある。
The device has a constraint on its movement.
彼は拘束衣を着せられた。
He was put in a straitjacket (a physical constraint).
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.
遠慮しないで、何でも言ってください。
Don't feel constrained; please say anything.
彼は遠慮して本当のことを言わなかった。
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.
彼は自制心が強い。
He has strong self-constraint.
甘いものを食べないように自制している。
I'm constraining myself from eating sweets.
Literally 'to suppress oneself', used for holding back emotions or desires.
怒りを自分で抑えるのは難しい。
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.
この問題にはいくつかの制約条件がある。
This problem has several constraints.
Used in physics or mathematics for boundary conditions or constraints. Less common than 制約条件.
束縛条件を満たす解を求めよ。
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.
時間の制約がある。
There is a time constraint.
速度制限を守ってください。
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.
遠慮しないでください。
Please don't feel constrained.
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.