noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', transitive verb
General term for something that blocks progress, access, or smooth operation. Can be physical, abstract, or systemic. Used as a noun and with する to mean 'to hinder' or 'to obstruct'.
大雪で交通に障害が出た。
Heavy snow caused obstacles to traffic.
言葉の壁がコミュニケーションの障害になっている。
The language barrier is an obstacle to communication.
noun
disability; impairment; disorder
Refers to a physical, mental, or functional impairment. Often used in medical, social welfare, and legal contexts. The spelling 障がい is sometimes preferred here.
彼は視覚障害がある。
He has a visual impairment.
発達障害についての理解を深める。
Deepen understanding of developmental disorders.
noun
Abbreviation of 障害競走. Used in horse racing contexts.
See also: 障害競走
今日のメインレースは障害だ。
Today's main race is the steeplechase.
noun
obstacle race; steeplechase (athletics)
Abbreviation of 障害物競走. Used in athletics (track and field) contexts.
See also: 障害物競走
彼は3000メートル障害で優勝した。
He won the 3000-meter steeplechase.