Translation guide
A maze is a complex network of paths designed to confuse. In Japanese, the most common word is 迷路 (meiro), but there are other terms depending on the type and context.
Referring to a physical puzzle with paths and walls, like a garden maze or a puzzle on paper.
The most common and general word for 'maze' or 'labyrinth'. Used for physical mazes, puzzle mazes, and metaphorical mazes.
The children played in the maze.
Often used for large, complex, or mythical labyrinths, like the Cretan Labyrinth. Can sound more literary or dramatic.
Specifically a maze made of hedges or bushes, often found in gardens or parks.
Literally 'hedge maze'. Used when you need to specify the material.
A maze drawn on paper or in a game, where you trace a path from start to finish.
The standard term for puzzle mazes.
Describing a complex, confusing situation, like bureaucracy or a difficult problem.
Commonly used metaphorically for a confusing situation.
Describing a confusing layout of streets, alleys, or corridors.
Used for confusing street layouts.
迷路 (meiro) is the everyday word for any maze or labyrinth. 迷宮 (meikyū) is more literary and often refers to grand, mythical, or inescapable labyrinths. In most casual contexts, 迷路 is sufficient.
The English word 'maze' is not related to the verb 'amaze'. To express 'amaze' in Japanese, use 驚かせる (odorokaseru) or びっくりさせる (bikkuri saseru).
This maze is very difficult.
伝説の迷宮を探検する。
Explore the legendary labyrinth.
I got lost in the garden's hedge maze.
Can be used for hedge mazes as well, especially if the context is clear.
That park has a big maze.
Please solve this maze.
Explicitly 'maze puzzle', often used for activity books.
A book of maze puzzles for children.
I got lost in a maze of regulations.
Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty of escaping the situation.
He was trapped in a labyrinth of his own mind.
The old town is a maze of alleys.