Translation guide
The English word "obstacle" can refer to a physical barrier, an abstract difficulty, or something that hinders progress. Japanese has several words and expressions that map to these different nuances, and the best choice depends on whether the obstacle is tangible, metaphorical, or a person causing trouble.
A physical object that blocks a path or makes movement difficult.
The most direct translation for a physical barrier or obstruction, such as a fallen tree on a road or a barricade.
道路に大きな障害物があった。
There was a big obstacle on the road.
Something that is in the way or a nuisance, often used for objects that are inconveniently placed.
この箱が邪魔物だ。
This box is an obstacle (in the way).
A difficulty, problem, or barrier that prevents progress in a non-physical sense, such as in a project, plan, or personal goal.
A broad term for any kind of hindrance, impediment, or barrier, often used in formal or abstract contexts like 'obstacle to success'.
言葉の壁が大きな障害になった。
The language barrier became a major obstacle.
An obstacle that interferes with a plan or activity, often used in business or official contexts. Implies a hindrance to smooth progress.
An obstruction or hindrance, often used in the phrase '妨げになる' (to be an obstacle). Slightly more literary than 障害.
Literally 'wall', used metaphorically for a barrier or obstacle, especially in phrases like '壁にぶつかる' (hit a wall).
彼は大きな壁にぶつかった。
He hit a major obstacle.
A person who hinders or obstructs progress, often intentionally.
A person who is a nuisance or gets in the way. Can be used seriously or jokingly.
彼はプロジェクトの邪魔者だ。
He is an obstacle to the project.
A person who is a hindrance because they slow things down or are a burden. Often used for someone who is incompetent or a drag on the team.
A hurdle or barrier in a race or competitive context.
Borrowed from English 'hurdle', used for both literal hurdles in track and metaphorical obstacles.
彼はハードルを飛び越えた。
He jumped over the hurdle.
Used in compound words like 障害物競走 (obstacle course race).
障害 (しょうがい) is a neutral, formal term for an obstacle or impediment, often used in abstract contexts. 邪魔 (じゃま) is more casual and implies something is a nuisance or in the way. 邪魔 can be used as a verb (邪魔する) meaning 'to disturb' or 'to interrupt'.
お邪魔します。
Sorry to disturb you. (common greeting when entering someone's home)
In English, 'obstacle' is often used metaphorically. In Japanese, using 障害物 for a non-physical obstacle can sound unnatural. Use 障害 or 壁 for abstract barriers, and 邪魔者 for people who are obstacles.
The budget shortfall is an obstacle to the plan.
騒音が勉強の妨げになった。
The noise was an obstacle to studying.
彼はチームの足手まといだ。
He is a hindrance to the team.
障害物競走で一位になった。
I got first place in the obstacle course race.