傀儡
also: くぐつ
Meanings
Refers to a literal puppet or marionette, as well as a person or entity controlled by others. The figurative use is common in political contexts.
He is nothing more than a puppet in the political world.
In this puppet show, elaborate marionettes are used.
Less common than the puppet sense; refers to the person who manipulates puppets. Can also be used figuratively for a behind-the-scenes controller.
The puppeteer breathes life into each puppet one by one.
Only with reading くぐつ
Archaic sense restricted to the reading くぐつ. Historically referred to female entertainers or prostitutes associated with puppeteering troupes.
In ancient times, 傀儡 (くぐつ) referred to itinerant performers.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の傀儡になるto become someone's puppet (be controlled by them)
The country's leader became a puppet of the great power.
- 〈人〉を傀儡にするto use someone as a puppet, to install them as a figurehead
The military installed the former minister as a puppet and seized power.