Translation guide
The English verb 'interlace' means to weave or twist things together, often in a pattern. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent. The best choice depends on what is being interlaced: fingers, threads, branches, or abstract elements. This guide covers common ways to express interlacing in physical and metaphorical contexts.
To weave fingers together, as when holding hands with fingers intertwined.
Literally 'entwine fingers'. The most natural way to describe interlacing fingers with someone else or one's own fingers.
彼は彼女の指に自分の指を絡めた。
He interlaced his fingers with hers.
Literally 'join hands'. Can refer to clasping hands together, including interlacing fingers, but is broader.
二人は手を組んで歩いた。
They walked with their hands clasped (fingers interlaced).
Intransitive verb meaning 'to become entangled/intertwined'. Can describe fingers naturally intertwining.
二人の指が自然に絡み合った。
Their fingers naturally interlaced.
To weave or twist strands together to form a fabric, braid, or mesh.
Literally 'weave and mix'. Used for interlacing different threads or materials in weaving.
絹と麻を織り交ぜた布。
A cloth made by interlacing silk and hemp.
To knit or braid in. Used when interlacing strands into a braid or knit pattern.
To entwine or twist together. General term for interlacing flexible things.
To describe branches or vines growing in a tangled, intertwined manner.
Intransitive verb for things becoming intertwined, like branches or vines.
木の枝が絡み合っている。
The tree branches are interlaced.
To intermingle in a complex way. Often used for branches, lines, or paths crossing.
枝が複雑に交錯している。
The branches are intricately interlaced.
To weave together different themes, plot lines, or concepts in a narrative or argument.
Metaphorically 'weave in'. Commonly used for interlacing themes or elements in a story.
彼の小説は現実と幻想を織り交ぜている。
His novel interlaces reality and fantasy.
For abstract things like emotions or ideas intertwining in a complex way.
様々な感情が交錯する。
Various emotions interlace.
絡める (karameru) is a general verb for entwining physical objects like threads, fingers, or vines. 織り交ぜる (orimazeru) specifically implies weaving together, often with a pattern, and is used metaphorically for abstract elements. 交錯する (kōsaku suru) is intransitive and describes a state of complex intermingling, often for lines, branches, or abstract concepts.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'interlace'. Using a direct translation like インター レースする is not natural. Choose the verb based on what is being interlaced.
To interlace a ribbon into the hair.
糸を絡めて模様を作る。
To interlace threads to create a pattern.