Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Obstacle" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "obstacle", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
障害
しょうがい (shōgai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
支障
ししょう (shishou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "obstacle" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 障害 and 支障.
In Japanese, 障害 (しょうがい (shōgai)) is typically associated with "obstacle, impediment, disability" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Can refer to a physical barrier, a problem that hinders progress, or a physical/mental disability.
On the other hand, 支障 (ししょう (shishou)) maps to "obstacle, hindrance, impediment, trouble" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Something that gets in the way or causes trouble, preventing smooth progress or normal functioning. Often used with verbs like をきたす. A literal translation of "obstacle" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "障害"
彼らは多くの障害を乗り越えて目標を達成した。
They overcame many obstacles and achieved their goal.
Bilingual Context for "支障"
この変更が業務に支障をきたすことはないだろう。
This change probably won't cause any hindrance to our operations.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼らは多くの ＿＿＿ を乗り越えて目標を達成した。" (Meaning: "They overcame many obstacles and achieved their goal.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "障害" fits here because it means "obstacle, impediment, disability" in the context of: "They overcame many obstacles and achieved their goal.". "支障" represents "obstacle, hindrance, impediment, trouble".