Translation guide
Describes a space that is too small, crowded, or uncomfortable, or a body position that feels tight and restricted.
Express that a room, vehicle, or area feels tight and lacks enough space.
The most common adjective for a space that is physically small or cramped. Can be used for rooms, houses, cars, etc.
この部屋は狭いですね。
This room is cramped, isn't it?
電車の中が狭くて動けない。
It's so cramped inside the train that I can't move.
Emphasizes that a space is too small for its purpose, often used for living or working spaces.
このアパートは手狭になってきた。
This apartment has become cramped.
Colloquial onomatopoeic expression meaning packed tight or jammed, like in a crowded train.
朝の電車はいつもぎゅうぎゅうだ。
The morning train is always cramped.
Stronger than 狭い, conveys a feeling of being oppressively cramped and uncomfortable.
地下室は狭苦しくて長くいられない。
The basement is so cramped that I can't stay long.
Describe a posture or situation where the body is squeezed or unable to stretch.
Literally 'body is tight', used when you feel physically cramped, such as in a small seat or when wearing tight clothes.
この椅子は小さくて体が窮屈だ。
This chair is so small that I feel cramped.
長時間同じ姿勢でいると体が窮屈になる。
Staying in the same position for a long time makes my body feel cramped.
Means 'cannot stretch out limbs', used when a space is too small to extend arms or legs.
飛行機のエコノミークラスでは手足を伸ばせない。
In economy class on the plane, I can't stretch out and feel cramped.
Can also describe a seat or space that feels too small for the body.
Express a sense of being mentally or emotionally cramped, lacking freedom.
Literally 'breath is blocked', used for a stifling atmosphere or oppressive situation that makes you feel cramped.
この会社は規則が厳しくて息が詰まる。
This company has so many strict rules that I feel cramped.
Means 'feel cramped/restricted', used for social or psychological constraints.
実家にいると窮屈に感じることがある。
Sometimes I feel cramped when I'm at my parents' house.
狭い (semai) refers to physical smallness of a space. 窮屈 (kyuukutsu) implies a feeling of tightness or restriction, either physical or psychological. Use 狭い for objective size, 窮屈 for subjective discomfort.
この部屋は狭いが、窮屈ではない。
This room is small but not cramped.
The back seat was cramped and my legs started hurting.