Translation guide
The English verb 'intertwine' describes things that are twisted together or closely connected. In Japanese, the best translation depends on whether you mean physical twisting, abstract interconnection, or being entangled. This guide covers common and natural ways to express these ideas.
To twist two or more things together so they become one strand or mass.
Intransitive verb meaning to become entangled or intertwined. Used for threads, vines, hair, etc. that twist together naturally or by accident.
The threads became intertwined and wouldn't come undone.
Transitive verb meaning to entwine or twist something around something else. Often used when one thing is wrapped around another.
She intertwined her hair around her finger.
To intertwine by weaving or braiding in. Used for hair braiding or incorporating strands into a weave.
I intertwined a ribbon into the braid.
To connect or blend two or more things so closely that they become inseparable.
Intransitive verb meaning to be linked or connected. Used for abstract relationships like fate, ideas, or interests becoming intertwined.
Their destinies are deeply intertwined.
Suru verb meaning to intermingle or intersect in a complex way. Often used for emotions, thoughts, or plot lines.
Suru verb meaning to fuse or blend together. Used when distinct elements merge into a unified whole, like cultures or styles.
To become caught up in a complex, often problematic, situation or relationship.
Passive form of 巻き込む, meaning to be dragged into or embroiled in. Used for getting unintentionally involved in trouble or events.
He became intertwined in the incident.
Intransitive verb meaning to become tangled or complicated. Often used for relationships or situations that become messy and hard to resolve.
絡み合う is intransitive and describes the state of being intertwined, often without an agent. 絡める is transitive and implies someone actively twisting one thing around another. Use 絡み合う for natural tangling and 絡める for deliberate entwining.
The cords are intertwined.
He intertwined the cord around his leg.
Avoid directly translating 'intertwine' as 絡み合う for abstract connections like 'our lives are intertwined.' Instead, use 結びつく or 交錯する for a more natural expression. 絡み合う can sound too physical or messy for poetic or formal contexts.
Their fingers intertwined.
The two stories are closely intertwined.
Various motives are intertwined.
A design where tradition and modernity are intertwined.
話がもつれてしまった。
The discussion became intertwined and confusing.