Translation guide
The English word 'shackles' can refer to physical restraints like chains and handcuffs, or metaphorically to anything that restricts freedom. This guide covers both literal and figurative uses, with natural Japanese expressions for each.
Referring to metal restraints used on prisoners or slaves, such as chains, handcuffs, or leg irons.
Referring to anything that limits freedom, such as social norms, obligations, or oppressive systems.
束縛 is the most common and versatile for abstract restraints (emotional, social). 枷 is more literary and often implies a heavy burden. 足枷 specifically suggests something that impedes progress or movement.
Avoid directly translating 'shackles' as シャックル (shakkuru), which is a technical term for a metal connector used in rigging, not for restraints.
The police put handcuffs on the suspect.
Fetters or shackles for the feet. Can also be used metaphorically.
囚人は足枷をつけられていた。
The prisoner was put in shackles.
Chain. Often used for shackles in a general sense, especially when emphasizing the chain itself.
彼は鎖で縛られていた。
He was bound with chains.
Shackles, yoke. A somewhat literary term for restraints, often used metaphorically.
彼は枷を外してもらった。
He had his shackles removed.
Restraint device. A formal, technical term covering various physical restraints.
拘束具の使用は最小限にすべきだ。
The use of restraints should be minimized.
Restraint, bondage. Commonly used for emotional or social restrictions.
彼は会社の束縛から解放された。
He was freed from the shackles of the company.
伝統の束縛を打ち破る。
Break free from the shackles of tradition.
Shackles, yoke. Used metaphorically for burdens or restrictions, often in literary contexts.
過去の枷から逃れたい。
I want to escape the shackles of the past.
Fetters. Metaphorically, something that hinders progress.
その規則が成長の足枷になっている。
Those rules are shackles on growth.
Restriction, limitation. A neutral term for constraints.
予算の制約から解放されたい。
I want to be free from the shackles of the budget.
Something that takes away freedom. A descriptive phrase for shackles in a metaphorical sense.
借金は自由を奪うものだ。
Debt is a shackle on freedom.