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.
There is an obstruction on the road.
Please remove the obstruction in the pipe.
Specifically refers to a clog or blockage, often in pipes, drains, or machinery.
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.
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'.
There were many obstructions to his plan.
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.
An illegal act of blocking an opponent in sports.
A blockage in a bodily passage, such as an intestine or airway.
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.
He was arrested for obstruction of justice.
業務妨害で訴えられた。
He was sued for obstruction of business.
We faced obstruction from the opposing team.
工事の遅れが全体の進行に支障をきたしている。
The construction delay is causing an obstruction to the overall progress.
That box is an obstruction (in the way).
His interference is nothing but an obstruction.
Loanword from English, used specifically in baseball for obstruction (when a fielder impedes a runner).
He was called safe due to obstruction.
喉に詰まりを感じる。
I feel an obstruction in my throat.