Translation guide
The English word 'puppet' can refer to a physical doll manipulated by strings or hand, or metaphorically to a person or entity controlled by others. This guide covers both literal and figurative uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
A doll or figure moved by strings, hand, or other mechanisms, used in performances.
General word for doll or puppet. Often used in compounds to specify the type.
A person, organization, or government that is controlled by another, lacking independence.
操り人形 is the everyday word for both literal and figurative puppets. 傀儡 is more formal and often used in political or historical contexts (e.g., 傀儡政権). For most situations, 操り人形 is the safer choice.
While 'puppet government' can be translated as 傀儡政権, using 操り人形政権 is unnatural. Stick to the set phrase 傀儡政権.
子供が人形で遊んでいる。
The child is playing with a puppet.
Specifically a marionette or string puppet. Emphasizes manipulation.
操り人形の劇を見た。
I watched a puppet show.
Finger puppet.
指人形でお話を作った。
I made up a story with finger puppets.
Loanword from English, used in modern contexts like TV shows or workshops.
パペット作りが趣味です。
Making puppets is my hobby.
Same as the physical puppet, but used metaphorically. Very common.
彼は社長の操り人形に過ぎない。
He is nothing more than the president's puppet.
Literary or formal term for a puppet ruler or figurehead. Often used in political contexts.
その政権は傀儡政権だ。
That government is a puppet regime.
To be at someone's beck and call; to do whatever someone says. Describes the behavior of a puppet-like person.
彼は妻の言いなりになっている。
He is a puppet of his wife. (lit. He does whatever his wife says.)
Slang for a person who acts like a mindless robot, controlled by others.
あいつは上司のロボットだ。
That guy is the boss's puppet.