Translation guide
The English verb "interfere" covers a range of meanings from meddling in affairs to causing disruption or obstruction. This guide breaks down the main uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To involve yourself in matters that do not concern you, often in an unwelcome way.
The most direct equivalent for 'interfere' in the sense of meddling. Often used with に to indicate what is being interfered with.
He's always interfering in my work.
Literally 'to put one's mouth out', meaning to butt in or give unsolicited advice. More casual than 干渉する.
Don't interfere in things that aren't your business.
To meddle or be a busybody, often with a nuance of unwanted kindness. More colloquial.
She's always meddling and interfering in my love life.
To prevent something from happening or developing properly.
To obstruct or hinder. Often used with を. Can be used for both physical and abstract interference.
The noise interfered with my studying.
To disturb or get in the way. Very common in daily conversation. Can be used for people or things.
The TV noise is interfering with my concentration.
Formal term for hindering or impeding, often used in technical or business contexts.
To disturb a signal or wave, such as radio or electronic interference.
Also used for technical interference, like radio waves or signals. Same word as meddling, but context makes it clear.
This device may interfere with other electronic equipment.
Specifically for radio interference or crosstalk. Technical term.
The radio is getting interference and is hard to hear.
To step in or become involved, often to prevent something or to help.
干渉する implies unwanted involvement in affairs, while 邪魔する is about physically or directly obstructing an activity. 干渉する can be used for both personal meddling and technical interference, whereas 邪魔する is more about being a nuisance or obstacle.
Avoid directly translating 'interfere with' as 〜と干渉する. The correct particle is に: 〜に干渉する. For 'interfere with a plan', use 計画を妨げる (けいかくをさまたげる) or 計画の邪魔をする (けいかくのじゃまをする).
New regulations are interfering with economic growth.
彼はいつも人の問題に手を出す。
He always interferes in other people's problems.