Translation guide
The English word 'yoke' can refer to a physical wooden beam for joining animals, a figurative burden or oppression, or a part of clothing. This guide covers the most common Japanese equivalents for each meaning, focusing on natural usage for English-speaking learners.
The physical object used to harness oxen or other animals together for pulling.
The standard word for a yoke used on animals, especially oxen. Can also be used metaphorically for a burden.
牛にくびきをかける。
Put a yoke on the ox.
A metaphor for something that restricts freedom or imposes hardship, such as tyranny, slavery, or a heavy responsibility.
Used metaphorically for an oppressive burden or restraint, similar to English 'yoke of oppression'.
圧政のくびきから解放される。
Be freed from the yoke of tyranny.
Means 'restraint' or 'shackles', often used for emotional or social constraints. Less directly 'yoke' but common for oppressive restrictions.
Literally 'heavy load', used for a burden or responsibility that weighs one down. Can translate 'yoke' in contexts of duty.
The fitted part of a shirt, dress, or coat that goes across the shoulders and upper back.
Loanword from English, used in sewing and fashion for the yoke of a garment.
このシャツはヨークにギャザーが入っている。
This shirt has gathers at the yoke.
彼は親の束縛から逃れたいと思っている。
He wants to escape the yoke of his parents' control.
That responsibility was a yoke for him.