Translation guide
The English word 'tangle' can refer to a messy mass of something (like hair or wires), a confused state, or a conflict. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean a physical tangle, a mental tangle, or getting involved in something complicated.
Describing something that is twisted together in a messy way, like hair, string, cables, or branches.
A noun meaning a tangle or entanglement. Commonly used for hair, threads, ropes, etc. Also used metaphorically for complicated situations.
I comb out the tangles in my hair.
I untangle the cord.
A noun meaning a tangle or entanglement, often emphasizing the state of being caught or intertwined. Slightly more casual than もつれ.
I fix the tangle in the fishing line.
A colloquial noun for a tangle, often used for things like hair or string that are messily tangled. Has a slightly childish or informal feel.
My hair is all tangled up.
Describing the action of something getting tangled or twisted.
Intransitive verb meaning to get tangled, to become entangled. Used for hair, threads, relationships, etc.
My hair got tangled and the brush won't go through.
Intransitive verb meaning to get tangled, to be entwined. Often used for things wrapping around each other.
Colloquial intransitive verb meaning to get tangled or messed up. Often used for hair, string, or plans.
Describing the action of causing something to become tangled.
Describing a state of confusion, mixed-up thoughts, or a complicated situation.
A general word for confusion, disorder, or chaos. Can be used for mental confusion or a tangled situation.
My mind is in a tangle.
A more formal word meaning complication or entanglement, often used for complex situations or information.
Also used metaphorically for emotional or relational tangles.
Describing becoming entangled in a difficult or troublesome matter.
糸が絡まってしまった。
The thread got all tangled up.
The story is getting tangled up.
猫が毛糸を絡ませた。
The cat tangled the yarn.
情報が錯綜している。
The information is all tangled up.
A tangle of emotions led to a fight.
I got tangled up in a weird incident.