Translation guide
The English word "bridle" can refer to a piece of horse tack (noun) or to the action of showing resentment or controlling something (verb). This guide covers both meanings with natural Japanese equivalents.
The headgear used to control a horse, including the bit and reins.
The most common word for bridle, though it can also refer specifically to the reins. Often used in the phrase 手綱を取る (to hold the reins).
To react with anger or annoyance, especially by drawing oneself up.
To be indignant or resentful. A common way to express the verb 'bridle' in the sense of taking offense.
彼はその批判に憤慨した。
He bridled at the criticism.
To get annoyed or offended, often with a visible reaction. More colloquial than 憤慨する.
To keep something under control, like emotions or actions.
Do not use 手綱をつける for the verb meaning 'to bridle' (as in to show resentment or control). That would mean 'to put a bridle on (a horse)'. Use the expressions listed under the verb meanings instead.
彼は馬に手綱をつけた。
He put a bridle on the horse.
A more technical term for bridle, specifically the headstall and bit. Used in equestrian contexts.
馬勒を調整してください。
Please adjust the bridle.
A very specific term for the headstall part of a bridle. Rarely used outside specialized horse riding circles.
新しい頭絡を買った。
I bought a new headstall.
彼女はその冗談にムッとした。
She bridled at the joke.
Literally 'to show antipathy'. A more formal or written expression.
彼はその提案に反感を示した。
He bridled at the suggestion.
To suppress or hold back. Commonly used for controlling emotions, desires, or impulses.
彼は怒りを抑えた。
He bridled his anger.
To control or regulate, often used for machinery or systems, but can apply to emotions in a more formal sense.
感情を制御するのは難しい。
It's difficult to bridle one's emotions.
Literally 'to apply a brake'. Used metaphorically to curb or check something, like excessive behavior.
政府はインフレに歯止めをかけようとした。
The government tried to bridle inflation.