Translation guide
The English word 'tame' can be an adjective or a verb. As an adjective, it means domesticated, gentle, or not wild. As a verb, it means to domesticate, control, or make less powerful. This guide covers both uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
Describing an animal that is not wild, accustomed to humans, or domesticated.
Literally 'tamed', used for animals that have been domesticated or trained to live with humans.
That lion is tame.
Means 'accustomed to people', often used for wild animals that have become used to humans without full domestication.
This fox is tame.
Means 'gentle' or 'docile', can describe a tame animal's temperament, but not specifically about domestication.
That dog is tame.
Describing something that is not exciting, mild, or lacking in intensity.
To make a wild animal accustomed to humans and obedient.
To bring something wild or powerful under control, such as emotions, nature, or a situation.
Means 'to suppress' or 'to control', used for taming emotions, desires, or impulses.
He tamed his anger.
Means 'to control' or 'to regulate', often used for taming forces of nature or complex systems.
Metaphorically used for taming something wild, like hair or a chaotic situation.
The English verb 'tame' is often used metaphorically (tame your hair, tame inflation). In Japanese, different verbs are used depending on what is being controlled. Avoid directly translating 'tame' as 飼いならす for non-animal contexts unless it's a deliberate metaphor.
She tamed the wolf.
Scientists tried to tame the river.
彼女はくせ毛を飼いならすのに苦労している。
She struggles to tame her frizzy hair.