Translation guide
A bulwark is a defensive wall or barrier, often used metaphorically for something that provides strong protection or support.
A literal wall or embankment built for defense, such as a rampart or fortification.
General term for a defensive wall or barrier, used in both literal and figurative contexts.
Something that acts as a strong defense or safeguard, such as a person, institution, or principle.
The raised side of a ship above the deck, acting as a barrier to prevent falling overboard.
Loanword from English, commonly used in nautical contexts.
船のブルワークにもたれて海を見た。
I leaned against the ship's bulwark and looked at the sea.
Technical term for a ship's bulwark, rarely used outside specialized contexts.
When using 'bulwark' metaphorically, direct translations like '防壁' are acceptable, but more natural expressions like '砦' or '守り' may fit better depending on context. Avoid forcing 'bulwark' into every sentence; sometimes a simpler word like 'protection' (保護) is more natural in Japanese.
城の防壁は高くて厚い。
The castle's bulwark is tall and thick.
Refers to a fort or rampart, often used in military contexts.
堡塁を築いて敵の攻撃に備えた。
They built a bulwark to prepare for the enemy's attack.
Specifically a parapet or breastwork, a low protective wall along the top of a fortification.
兵士たちは胸壁の後ろに隠れた。
The soldiers hid behind the bulwark.
Also used metaphorically for a safeguard or barrier against abstract threats.
法の支配は専制に対する防壁だ。
The rule of law is a bulwark against tyranny.
Literally 'fortress', often used figuratively for a stronghold or bastion of something.
この組織は民主主義の砦だ。
This organization is a bulwark of democracy.
Means 'defense' or 'protection', can be used in phrases like 'bulwark against something'.
彼の存在が私の心の守りだ。
His presence is a bulwark for my heart.
Literally 'breakwater against ~', used metaphorically for a bulwark that stops something harmful.
教育は貧困に対する防波堤だ。
Education is a bulwark against poverty.
The height of the bulwark meets safety standards.