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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Obstruction" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "obstruction", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

妨害

ぼうがい (bōgai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

阻止

そし (soshi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "obstruction" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 妨害 and 阻止. In Japanese, 妨害 (ぼうがい (bōgai)) is typically associated with "obstruction, hindrance, interference" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The act of hindering or preventing someone or something from doing something or making progress. Often implies an intentional act.. On the other hand, 阻止 (そし (soshi)) maps to "obstruction; prevention; check; hindrance" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in formal contexts or news to describe preventing an action, plan, or movement from happening.. A literal translation of "obstruction" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "妨害"
彼の仕事の妨害はやめてほしい。
I want him to stop hindering my work.
Bilingual Context for "阻止"
警察はデモ隊の行進を阻止した。
The police prevented the demonstrators' march.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "彼の仕事の ___ はやめてほしい。" (Meaning: "I want him to stop hindering my work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "妨害" fits here because it means "obstruction, hindrance, interference" in the context of: "I want him to stop hindering my work.". "阻止" represents "obstruction; prevention; check; hindrance".