Translation guide
A literal or metaphorical line that saves a life or provides crucial support.
A physical rope or line used to prevent falling or drowning, or for rescue.
The most direct translation for a literal lifeline, such as a rope used by climbers, firefighters, or in water rescues.
The climber securely tied the lifeline.
A safety rope or line, often used in technical or industrial contexts.
The worker put on a safety line.
Something that provides essential help, hope, or a means of escape in a difficult situation.
Also used metaphorically for something that is a vital support or only hope.
For her, this phone was the only lifeline.
Literally 'life line', can be used metaphorically for something essential to survival or success, but also refers to the lifeline in palm reading.
A helping hand or means of rescue, often used when someone is in trouble.
A telephone service providing immediate support for people in distress.
命綱 (いのちづな) is the traditional word for a literal or metaphorical lifeline, emphasizing a rope-like connection that saves a life. ライフライン is a modern loanword often used for infrastructure (electricity, water, gas) or a vital communication link. For a crisis hotline, use いのちの電話.
The internet is my lifeline to the outside world.
He threw me a lifeline when I was drowning in debt.
A loanword from English, commonly used for essential utilities (electricity, water, gas) or a vital connection.
The lifelines (utilities) were cut off by the earthquake.
This deal is the company's lifeline.
His assistance became a lifeline.
There is a lifeline for victims of domestic violence.