Translation guide
The English word "hedge" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: a row of bushes, avoiding a direct answer, and financial risk reduction. Other niche meanings are omitted.
A line of closely planted shrubs or low trees forming a boundary or fence.
The standard word for a hedge as a garden feature or boundary. Often implies a neatly trimmed hedge.
To avoid giving a clear or direct answer to a question; to be evasive.
To protect oneself against financial loss by making balancing or compensating investments.
The standard loanword used in finance for hedging. Often used as a noun or with する.
The English verb "to hedge" in the sense of avoiding a direct answer does not have a direct single-word Japanese equivalent. Using ヘッジする in this context would be unnatural. Use phrases like 言葉を濁す instead.
庭の周りに生け垣がある。
There is a hedge around the garden.
A more general term for a fence or hedge, often used for traditional Japanese hedges made of various plants.
A house surrounded by a bamboo hedge.
Loanword from English, used in gardening contexts but less common than native terms.
A hedge is essential for an English garden.
Literally 'to muddy one's words'. The most natural way to say someone is hedging or being evasive in speech.
He hedged and didn't answer the question.
Simply means 'not say clearly'. A straightforward way to describe hedging.
She hedged and changed the subject.
To give a vague reply. Useful when someone is non-committal.
He hedged with a vague reply and got through the moment.
Literally 'to run away'. Can be used metaphorically for evading a question, but is more direct and less subtle.
He hedged the question.
Hedge against exchange rate risk.
Literally 'avoid risk'. A more general term that can be used in financial contexts.
Investors diversify to hedge their risks.
Literally 'to take out insurance'. Metaphorically used for hedging, but less precise in finance.
They hedged against price fluctuations.