Translation guide
The English word "hurdle" can refer to a physical barrier in sports, or metaphorically to an obstacle or difficulty. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
To refer to a problem, barrier, or challenge that must be overcome.
The most common and general word for 'obstacle' or 'barrier', used in both physical and abstract contexts.
To refer to the actual barrier used in hurdling events.
障害 (しょうがい) is the most general term for obstacle, covering physical, social, and mental barriers. ハードル is a loanword often used in business or casual talk for a specific challenge or condition to be met. 壁 (かべ) is a vivid metaphor for a daunting hurdle, often personal. Use 障害 for formal or broad contexts, ハードル for modern, specific hurdles, and 壁 for emotional or growth-related barriers.
While ハードル can be used metaphorically, using it for every 'hurdle' might sound unnatural. For general obstacles, 障害 or 壁 are often better choices.
言葉の障害を乗り越える。
Overcome the language hurdle.
就職には多くの障害がある。
There are many hurdles to getting a job.
Literally 'wall', but very commonly used metaphorically for a hurdle or barrier, especially in personal or professional growth.
彼は大きな壁にぶつかった。
He hit a big hurdle.
この壁を乗り越えなければならない。
We must overcome this hurdle.
Loanword from English, used metaphorically just like in English. Common in business and casual contexts.
その計画にはいくつかハードルがある。
There are several hurdles in that plan.
最初のハードルは資金調達だ。
The first hurdle is fundraising.
Refers to a difficult barrier or crucial test, often used for entrance exams or major challenges.
大学入試の難関を突破する。
Clear the hurdle of university entrance exams.
Obstacle or hindrance, often used in formal contexts like business or law. Implies something that interferes with progress.
業務に支障をきたす。
Cause a hurdle in operations.
The standard term for the athletic equipment. Also used as a verb 'ハードルを跳ぶ' (to jump hurdles).
彼はハードルを軽々と跳んだ。
He easily jumped the hurdle.
ハードル競走
hurdle race