Translation guide
The English word 'obstruction' refers to something that blocks or hinders movement, progress, or activity. In Japanese, the best translation depends on whether the obstruction is physical, metaphorical, or related to rules and procedures. This guide covers common words and phrases for each nuance.
Something that physically blocks a path, pipe, or passage.
General term for a physical obstacle or obstruction, such as on a road or in a pipe.
道路に障害物があります。
There is an obstruction on the road.
パイプの障害物を取り除いてください。
Please remove the obstruction in the pipe.
Specifically refers to a clog or blockage, often in pipes, drains, or machinery.
排水管の詰まりを直さないと。
We need to fix the obstruction in the drainpipe.
Can refer to a physical hindrance, but more often used for abstract obstruction. In physical contexts, it sounds literary.
倒木が通行の妨げとなった。
The fallen tree became an obstruction to traffic.
Something that impedes progress, plans, or activities in a non-physical way.
Broad term for an obstacle or hindrance, used in both physical and abstract contexts. Common in phrases like 'obstruction of justice'.
彼の計画には多くの障害があった。
There were many obstructions to his plan.
司法妨害で逮捕された。
He was arrested for obstruction of justice.
Emphasizes active interference or disruption, often deliberate. Used in legal and competitive contexts.
Refers to a hindrance or impediment, often used in formal contexts to describe something that interferes with operations or plans.
Casual term for something that gets in the way or is a nuisance. Can be used for physical or abstract obstruction, but implies annoyance.
その箱が邪魔だ。
That box is an obstruction (in the way).
An illegal act of blocking an opponent in sports.
Used in sports contexts for obstruction fouls, such as in soccer or rugby.
審判は妨害のファウルを取った。
The referee called a foul for obstruction.
A blockage in a bodily passage, such as an intestine or airway.
Medical term for obstruction or blockage, e.g., intestinal obstruction.
腸閉塞の手術を受けた。
He underwent surgery for an intestinal obstruction.
Can be used in everyday language for a blockage in the throat or nose, but less formal than 閉塞.
障害 (しょうがい) is a general obstacle, often neutral. 妨害 (ぼうがい) implies active interference, often deliberate. 邪魔 (じゃま) is casual and implies something annoying or in the way. Use 障害 for most abstract obstructions, 妨害 for legal/sports interference, and 邪魔 for everyday nuisances.
Directly translating 'obstruction' as 妨害 in all contexts can sound unnatural. For physical blockages, use 障害物 or 詰まり. For medical contexts, use 閉塞. Reserve 妨害 for active interference.
業務妨害で訴えられた。
He was sued for obstruction of business.
相手チームの妨害にあった。
We faced obstruction from the opposing team.
The construction delay is causing an obstruction to the overall progress.
His interference is nothing but an obstruction.
Loanword from English, used specifically in baseball for obstruction (when a fielder impedes a runner).
走塁妨害でセーフになった。
He was called safe due to obstruction.
喉に詰まりを感じる。
I feel an obstruction in my throat.