Translation guide
A literal or metaphorical line that saves a life or provides crucial support.
A physical rope or line used to prevent falling or drowning, or for rescue.
The most direct translation for a literal lifeline, such as a rope used by climbers, firefighters, or in water rescues.
Something that provides essential help, hope, or a means of escape in a difficult situation.
A telephone service providing immediate support for people in distress.
The standard term for a suicide prevention or crisis hotline in Japan.
悩みがあるなら、いのちの電話に相談してください。
If you have worries, please call the lifeline.
命綱 (いのちづな) is the traditional word for a literal or metaphorical lifeline, emphasizing a rope-like connection that saves a life. ライフライン is a modern loanword often used for infrastructure (electricity, water, gas) or a vital communication link. For a crisis hotline, use いのちの電話.
インターネットは私にとって外界へのライフラインです。
The internet is my lifeline to the outside world.
借金で苦しんでいた時、彼が救いの手を差し伸べてくれた。
He threw me a lifeline when I was drowning in debt.
登山者は命綱をしっかりと結んだ。
The climber securely tied the lifeline.
A safety rope or line, often used in technical or industrial contexts.
作業員は安全索を装着した。
The worker put on a safety line.
Also used metaphorically for something that is a vital support or only hope.
彼女にとって、この電話が唯一の命綱だった。
For her, this phone was the only lifeline.
A loanword from English, commonly used for essential utilities (electricity, water, gas) or a vital connection.
地震でライフラインが寸断された。
The lifelines (utilities) were cut off by the earthquake.
Literally 'life line', can be used metaphorically for something essential to survival or success, but also refers to the lifeline in palm reading.
この取引は会社の生命線だ。
This deal is the company's lifeline.
A helping hand or means of rescue, often used when someone is in trouble.
彼の援助が救いの手となった。
His assistance became a lifeline.
A general term for a counseling hotline, not necessarily for suicide prevention.
DV被害者のための相談ホットラインがあります。
There is a lifeline for victims of domestic violence.