Translation guide
The English word 'fetters' refers to physical chains or restraints, and metaphorically to anything that restricts freedom or progress. This guide covers both literal and figurative uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To refer to chains, shackles, or manacles used to bind a person, especially around the ankles.
Literally 'leg shackles'. The most common and direct word for fetters, used both literally and figuratively.
To describe something that limits freedom, progress, or development, such as social norms, rules, or psychological barriers.
足枷 is the most direct equivalent of 'fetters' and works for both literal and figurative contexts. 束縛 emphasizes a sense of being bound or tied, often with emotional or social connotations. 制約 is a neutral term for restrictions or limitations, often used in formal or business settings.
While 足枷 is the best match, in some figurative contexts other words like 束縛 or 制約 may sound more natural. For example, 'the fetters of love' is better as 愛の束縛 rather than 愛の足枷, though both are possible.
囚人は足枷をはめられていた。
The prisoner was put in fetters.
A general term for shackles or handcuffs, but can refer to fetters when context implies leg restraints. Often used in compounds.
彼は枷を外してもらった。
He had his fetters removed.
Means 'chain'. Can be used for fetters when the material is emphasized, but less specific than 足枷.
足に鎖が巻かれていた。
Chains were wrapped around his legs.
A compound meaning 'handcuffs and leg shackles'. Used when both hands and feet are bound.
彼は手枷足枷をはめられて牢屋に入れられた。
He was put in handcuffs and fetters and thrown into jail.
The same word as the literal meaning, very commonly used figuratively for anything that holds one back.
古い習慣が彼の足枷になっている。
Old habits are fetters for him.
その規則は進歩の足枷だ。
Those rules are fetters on progress.
Means 'restraint' or 'bondage'. Emphasizes the feeling of being tied down by something, often used for emotional or social constraints.
彼は伝統の束縛から逃れたいと思っている。
He wants to escape the fetters of tradition.
Means 'restriction' or 'limitation'. More neutral and often used for rules, budgets, or conditions that limit action.
予算の制約がプロジェクトの足枷になった。
Budget constraints became fetters for the project.
Also used figuratively, but less common than 足枷. Often appears in literary or formal contexts.
因習の枷を打ち破る。
Break the fetters of convention.