Translation guide
The English word 'labyrinth' can refer to a complex maze-like structure, or metaphorically to something intricate and confusing. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether you mean a physical maze, a puzzle, or a metaphorical entanglement.
Referring to a physical structure with many twisting passages, especially one that is difficult to navigate.
The most direct translation for 'labyrinth', often used for mythological or elaborate mazes. Can also be used metaphorically.
その地下には広大な迷宮が広がっていた。
A vast labyrinth stretched out underground.
Common word for 'maze', often used for puzzles or garden mazes. Slightly less grand than 迷宮.
子供たちは公園の迷路で遊んだ。
The children played in the park's maze.
Loanword from English, used in names of attractions or games, but not common in everyday speech.
そのゲームには「クリスタルラビリンス」というダンジョンがある。
That game has a dungeon called 'Crystal Labyrinth'.
Describing a situation, system, or thought process that is intricate, confusing, or difficult to escape from.
Used metaphorically for complex, confusing situations, like a 'labyrinth of regulations' or 'labyrinth of the mind'.
彼は官僚主義の迷宮に迷い込んだ。
He got lost in a labyrinth of bureaucracy.
Literally 'like a maze', used to describe something labyrinthine in a figurative sense.
この法律の条文は迷路のように複雑だ。
The provisions of this law are as complex as a labyrinth.
Can be used metaphorically, but less common than 迷宮 for abstract complexity.
Referring to the complex system of canals in the inner ear.
The standard medical term for the labyrinth of the inner ear.
内耳の迷路は平衡感覚に関与している。
The labyrinth of the inner ear is involved in the sense of balance.
迷宮 (meikyū) often implies a grand, mysterious, or mythological labyrinth, while 迷路 (meiro) is the everyday word for a maze or puzzle. For metaphorical use, 迷宮 is more common.
Life is often compared to a maze.