Translation guide
The English word "contrivance" can refer to a clever device, a scheme, or the act of inventing something. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A physical object or mechanical device that is cleverly designed, often for a specific purpose.
Refers to a clever idea, device, or ingenuity. Often used for simple, practical solutions.
He came up with a handy contrivance.
A mechanism or device, often with moving parts. Can imply a trick or gimmick.
This toy has an interesting contrivance.
A device or apparatus, often more formal or technical. Suitable for machinery.
That device is a contrivance for saving water.
A plan or scheme, especially one that is artificial, forced, or deceptive.
A stratagem or scheme, often implying cunning or manipulation.
His contrivance was quickly seen through.
A plan or trick, often used in competitive contexts like war or games.
A plot or scheme, often with a negative or secretive nuance.
The process of creating or inventing something, often with ingenuity.
A plot device or element that feels unnatural or overly convenient, often used in literary criticism.
Literally 'convenience-ism', used for plot contrivances that feel forced or too convenient.
The movie's ending is a contrivance.
Artificiality or contrivance, often used in literary or artistic contexts to describe something forced.
The English word "contrivance" covers a wide range of meanings. Directly translating it as a single Japanese word often sounds unnatural. Choose the option that best fits the specific nuance.
それは巧妙な計略だった。
It was a clever contrivance.
彼のたくらみは失敗に終わった。
His contrivance ended in failure.
その発明は生活を変えた。
That contrivance changed lives.
The novel feels like a contrivance.