Translation guide
The English word 'paralysis' can refer to a medical condition (loss of muscle function) or a metaphorical state (inability to act or function). Japanese has distinct terms for these uses, and the metaphorical sense often uses different expressions.
Loss of muscle function in part of the body, often due to nerve damage or stroke.
The standard medical term for paralysis. Can be used for both complete and partial loss of function.
He became paralyzed in the legs due to an accident.
顔面神経麻痺と診断された。
I was diagnosed with facial nerve paralysis.
Kana form of 麻痺, commonly used in everyday writing.
左手にまひが残っている。
I still have paralysis in my left hand.
A state of being unable to move forward, make decisions, or function due to fear, shock, or systemic problems.
Means stagnation or deadlock. Used for situations where progress stops, like economic paralysis or decision paralysis.
交渉は完全に停滞している。
Negotiations are completely paralyzed.
思考が停滞して何も決められない。
My thinking is paralyzed and I can't decide anything.
Literally 'stiffening', used for mental or organizational rigidity that prevents action.
Literally 'cannot move one's body', used figuratively for being stuck in a situation.
借金で身動きが取れない。
I'm paralyzed by debt.
Means dysfunction or functional paralysis, often used for systems or organizations.
A temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up.
The common term for sleep paralysis, literally 'bound by metal'. Often associated with a supernatural presence in folklore.
昨夜、金縛りにあった。
I had sleep paralysis last night.
Medical term for sleep paralysis.
While 麻痺 can be used metaphorically (e.g., 交通麻痺 - traffic paralysis), it often sounds medical. For inability to act, 停滞 or 硬直 are more natural.
恐怖で思考が硬直した。
My thoughts became paralyzed with fear.
政府は機能不全に陥っている。
The government is suffering from paralysis.
睡眠麻痺はよくある現象だ。
Sleep paralysis is a common phenomenon.