保釈
保釈 30초 만에
- 保釈 (hoshaku) means 'bail' in a legal context, referring to pre-trial release.
- It requires a financial deposit called 保釈金 (hoshakukin) to guarantee court appearance.
- In Japan, it is typically only available after a formal indictment (kiso) has occurred.
- Commonly heard in news and legal dramas; it's a formal, technical noun.
The Japanese word 保釈 (hoshaku) is a specialized legal term that translates directly to 'bail' in English. In the Japanese legal system, it refers to the temporary release of a defendant who has been indicted (kiso) but is awaiting their trial or the final judgment. This release is granted on the condition that a specific amount of money, known as 保釈金 (hoshakukin), is deposited with the court. This money acts as a financial guarantee that the individual will not flee the country, destroy evidence, or fail to appear at their scheduled court hearings. If the defendant follows all the rules, the money is eventually returned; if they disappear, the court keeps it. While the concept exists globally, the application in Japan is often discussed in the context of 'hostage justice' (hitojichi shiho), where bail is sometimes difficult to obtain before a confession is made.
- Legal Status
- It is a right guaranteed under certain conditions by the Code of Criminal Procedure, though judges have significant discretion to deny it if they believe the defendant is a flight risk or might tamper with evidence.
- Financial Aspect
- The amount is determined by the court based on the severity of the crime, the defendant's wealth, and the likelihood of them running away.
被告人は五百万円の保釈金で釈放された。(The defendant was released on five million yen bail.)
You will most frequently encounter this word in news reports, crime dramas, and legal discussions. Because Japan has a high conviction rate, the moment of 保釈 is a critical turning point in a high-profile case, often shown on TV as the defendant walks out of a detention center and bows to the cameras. It is important to distinguish this from 釈放 (shakuhou), which is a general term for release, and 仮釈放 (karishakuhou), which refers to parole after serving part of a prison sentence. 保釈 is strictly for the pre-sentencing phase after an official indictment has been made.
弁護士は保釈を申請したが、裁判所に却下された。(The lawyer applied for bail, but it was rejected by the court.)
The kanji themselves tell a story: 保 (ho) means to preserve, protect, or guarantee, and 釈 (shaku) means to explain or, more relevantly here, to release/unloose. Together, they represent a 'guaranteed release.' Understanding this word is essential for anyone following Japanese current events or legal thrillers, as it represents a fundamental part of the judicial process. It is a formal noun, and when used as a verb, it takes the form 保釈する (hoshaku suru) meaning 'to release on bail' or 保釈される (hoshaku sareru) meaning 'to be released on bail.'
彼は現在、保釈中の身である。(He is currently out on bail.)
- Common Collocations
- 保釈申請 (hoshaku shinsei) - Bail application; 保釈保証金 (hoshaku hoshoukin) - Bail bond/money; 保釈取り消し (hoshaku torikeshi) - Bail revocation.
裁判所は逃亡の恐れがないと判断し、保釈を認めた。(The court judged there was no risk of flight and granted bail.)
保釈の条件として、海外渡航が禁止された。(As a condition of bail, overseas travel was prohibited.)
Using 保釈 (hoshaku) correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often functions within a larger verb phrase or as a compound noun. In most everyday contexts, you will see it paired with verbs like 認める (mitomeru - to grant/allow), 申請する (shinsei suru - to apply for), or 決定する (kettei suru - to decide/rule). Because it is a legal term, the surrounding language is typically formal (teineigo) or written in a journalistic style (da-tai or de-aru tai). When discussing the person who is out on bail, the phrase 保釈中の (hoshaku-chuu no) is used as an adjective to describe their current status.
- As a Subject/Object
- 保釈が認められた (Bail was granted). Here, 'hoshaku' is the subject receiving the action of the verb 'mitomeru' in passive form.
検察側は保釈に反対する意見書を提出した。(The prosecution submitted a written opinion opposing bail.)
In a sentence, the 'money' part is often explicitly mentioned as 保釈金. If you want to say someone 'paid bail,' you would use 保釈金を納める (hoshakukin o osameru) or 払う (harau). The verb osameru is more formal and appropriate for legal fees or taxes. If a person violates their bail conditions, such as contacting witnesses or leaving a designated area, the bail is 'revoked,' which is 保釈が取り消される (hoshaku ga torikesareru). This level of precision is vital because the legal system relies on these specific distinctions.
彼は保釈された後、記者会見を開いた。(After being released on bail, he held a press conference.)
When describing the conditions attached to the bail, the word 保釈条件 (hoshaku jouken) is used. These conditions might include staying at a specific address or not using the internet. If you are writing a story or reporting news, you might use the phrase 保釈の身 (hoshaku no mi), which poetically refers to 'one's status as a person on bail.' This emphasizes the temporary and fragile nature of their freedom. For instance, '保釈の身でありながら、彼は再び罪を犯した' (While out on bail, he committed a crime again).
- Compound Nouns
- 保釈保証業者 (Bail bond agent); 保釈却下 (Bail rejection); 保釈停止 (Bail suspension).
裁判所は、証拠隠滅の恐れがあるとして保釈を却下した。(The court rejected bail on the grounds that there was a risk of evidence destruction.)
多額の保釈金を用意するのは容易ではない。(It is not easy to prepare a large amount of bail money.)
保釈中に逃亡したニュースが世間を騒がせた。(The news of someone fleeing while on bail caused a public stir.)
In Japan, 保釈 (hoshaku) is a word that echoes through the hallways of justice and the speakers of every television set during a major scandal. It is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation unless the topic is specifically about a legal case. However, because Japanese media focuses heavily on crime and celebrity scandals, the average person hears this word quite often. It is a staple of the 'News 7' or 'Wide Show' (daytime talk show) vocabulary. When a famous politician or CEO is arrested, the public waits with bated breath to see if 保釈 will be granted, as it is often seen as a barometer of how strong the prosecution's case is.
- TV News and Newspapers
- Headlines like '○○被告、保釈を申請' (Defendant XX applies for bail) or '保釈金1億円' (Bail set at 100 million yen) are extremely common in national papers like the Asahi or Yomiuri Shimbun.
ニュース速報:有名な俳優が保釈されました。(Breaking News: A famous actor has been released on bail.)
Another place you will frequently encounter 保釈 is in legal dramas (keiji dorama) or courtroom movies. Shows like '99.9 Criminal Lawyer' or 'Hero' often feature scenes where lawyers argue passionately for their client's 保釈. In these contexts, the word carries a heavy emotional weight, representing the first step toward proving innocence or at least allowing a father to see his children before the trial begins. The tension usually revolves around whether the judge will sign the 保釈決定 (hoshaku kettei - bail decision) or if the prosecution will file a 準抗告 (junkouko - quasi-appeal) to block it.
ドラマのシーンで、弁護士が「保釈を勝ち取りました!」と叫んだ。(In the drama scene, the lawyer shouted, "We won bail!")
In the business world, particularly in corporate law or compliance training, 保釈 might be mentioned when discussing the risks of white-collar crime. If a company director is arrested for financial misconduct, the company's stock price might fluctuate based on news of their 保釈 status. It's a word that signals a shift from the 'investigative' phase to the 'pre-trial' phase. Even in literature, particularly social realism or mystery novels (mystery shousetsu), the struggle to secure bail is a common plot point used to highlight the power dynamics between the individual and the state.
- Legal Documents
- If you ever have the misfortune of dealing with the Japanese police, 'hoshaku' will appear on the forms provided by your 'benghoshi' (lawyer).
裁判官は保釈の条件を厳しく設定した。(The judge set strict conditions for the bail.)
彼は保釈後、自宅で静かに過ごしている。(After his bail, he is spending time quietly at home.)
その事件の被告人は、保釈が認められなかった。(The defendant in that case was not granted bail.)
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 保釈 (hoshaku) with other words for 'release.' In English, we might loosely say someone was 'let go' or 'released,' but in Japanese, the legal distinctions are rigid. The most common confusion is with 釈放 (shakuhou). While shakuhou is a general term for being set free (after an arrest without charge, after a sentence is finished, or if found innocent), 保釈 specifically requires a financial deposit and happens *after* indictment but *before* the trial's end. Using hoshaku to describe a prisoner finishing their 10-year sentence is factually incorrect.
- Hoshaku vs. Shakuhou
- Hoshaku = Bail (money involved, temporary). Shakuhou = General release (can be permanent, no money necessarily involved).
❌ 刑期を終えて保釈された。(Incorrect: Released on bail after finishing the sentence.)
✅ 刑期を終えて釈放された。(Correct: Released after finishing the sentence.)
Another common error is confusing it with 仮釈放 (karishakuhou), which means 'parole.' Parole is when a prisoner is released early for good behavior *after* they have already started serving their prison sentence. 保釈 happens *before* they are even officially sentenced to prison. If you use hoshaku when you mean parole, a Japanese speaker will be confused because the legal stages are completely different. Remember: 保釈 is for defendants (hikokunin), while 仮釈放 is for inmates (jukeisha).
❌ 彼は保釈した。(He bailed - sounds like he bailed someone else out.)
✅ 彼は保釈された。(He was released on bail - the standard way to say it.)
Learners also sometimes misuse the word in non-legal contexts, like 'bailing' on a friend or 'bailing' water out of a boat. In Japanese, 保釈 is strictly a legal term. If you cancel plans at the last minute, you would use ドタキャンする (dotakyan suru). If you are removing water from a boat, you would use 垢を汲み出す (aka o kumidasu). Using 保釈 in these situations would sound very strange and overly dramatic, as if you are paying the court to let you skip dinner with your friends.
- Contextual Error
- Using 'hoshaku' for 'bailout' (financial rescue of a company). For a financial bailout, use '救済 (kyuusai)' or '公的資金注入 (kouteki shikin chuunyuu)'.
❌ 政府は銀行を保釈した。(Incorrect: The government bailed out the bank.)
✅ 政府は銀行を救済した。(Correct: The government rescued/bailed out the bank.)
被告人は保釈中に証拠を隠滅した。(The defendant destroyed evidence while on bail.)
弁護士は保釈の再申請を検討している。(The lawyer is considering re-applying for bail.)
To truly master 保釈 (hoshaku), you need to understand its neighbors in the legal lexicon. The Japanese legal system has several terms for 'release' or 'freedom' that are often used in the same breath but mean very different things. By comparing these, you can see exactly where 保釈 fits into the timeline of a criminal case. The most important distinction is between pre-trial release, mid-sentence release, and post-sentence release.
- 釈放 (Shakuhou)
- This is the umbrella term for 'release.' If the police catch the wrong person and let them go an hour later, that is 'shakuhou.' If someone is found not guilty at trial and goes home, that is 'shakuhou.' 'Hoshaku' is a *type* of 'shakuhou' that specifically involves bail money.
- 仮釈放 (Karishakuhou)
- Parole. This happens *after* a person has been convicted and has served a significant portion of their sentence. It is a 'provisional' (kari) release. 'Hoshaku' happens *before* conviction.
- 勾留 (Kouryuu)
- Detention. This is the opposite of 'hoshaku.' It is the act of keeping a suspect or defendant in custody. A lawyer's goal is often to end 'kouryuu' by securing 'hoshaku.'
彼は保釈ではなく、嫌疑不十分で釈放された。(He wasn't released on bail, but released due to insufficient evidence.)
In terms of more casual alternatives, there aren't many because 保釈 is so specific. However, in conversation, people might simply say 外に出る (soto ni deru - to come outside) or 自由になる (jiyuu ni naru - to become free) when talking about a defendant leaving jail, though these are vague. Another related term is 執行猶予 (shikkou yuuyo), which means 'suspended sentence.' This is often confused with bail by beginners. A suspended sentence means the person is found guilty but doesn't have to go to prison as long as they stay out of trouble. 保釈 is just a temporary break during the trial.
裁判所は保釈を認める決定を下した。(The court handed down a decision to grant bail.)
When discussing the act of bailing someone else out, you might use 身元引き受け (mimoto hikiuke), which refers to taking responsibility for the person's conduct. A 身元引受人 (mimoto hikiukenin) is a guarantor, often a family member, who promises the court that the defendant will behave while on 保釈. While not a synonym, it is a crucial part of the 'hoshaku' process. Finally, 釈明 (shakumei) uses the same 'shaku' kanji but means 'explanation' or 'vindication.' It's a good way to remember that 'shaku' involves 'clearing things up' or 'untying' a complicated situation.
- Summary Table
- 保釈: Pre-trial, money required. 釈放: General release. 仮釈放: Post-conviction, early release. 執行猶予: Guilty but no prison.
検察は保釈決定に対して異議を申し立てた。(The prosecution filed an objection against the bail decision.)
保釈が却下され、被告人は落胆した。(Bail was rejected, and the defendant was discouraged.)
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The 'shaku' in 'hoshaku' is the same character used for 'Shaka' (Buddha). This is because the Buddha 'unloosed' the truth or 'released' people from suffering. In a legal sense, it means 'untying' the prisoner from their cell.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'sha' as 'shay'. It should always be 'sha' as in 'shark'.
- Elongating the 'u' too much. It's a short vowel.
- Stressing the first syllable like English 'HO-shaku'. Japanese syllables should have equal length.
- Confusing 'hoshaku' with 'hosshaku' (a Buddhist priest's whisk).
- Confusing 'shaku' with 'seki' (seat).
난이도
The kanji '釈' is complex and the context is legal, making it harder for beginners.
Writing '釈' correctly requires practice with stroke order.
The pronunciation is straightforward, but the word is only used in specific contexts.
Easily recognizable in news broadcasts once you know the word.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Passive Voice (受身形)
彼は保釈された。 (He was bailed out.)
Compound Nouns (複合名詞)
保釈金 (Bail + Money = Bail money)
Noun + 中 (During/Under)
保釈中 (Under bail / While on bail)
Suru-Verbs (~する)
保釈を申請する (To apply for bail)
Conditional ~ば (If)
お金を払えば保釈される。 (If you pay money, you will be bailed out.)
수준별 예문
彼は保釈金で家に帰りました。
He went home with bail money.
Uses the particle 'de' to indicate the means (bail money).
保釈はとても高いです。
Bail is very expensive.
Simple noun + wa + adjective structure.
ニュースで保釈の話を聞きました。
I heard a story about bail on the news.
Uses 'no hanashi' to mean 'story/talk about'.
彼は今、保釈中です。
He is currently out on bail.
'-chuu' is a suffix meaning 'currently in the middle of/under'.
保釈金はいくらですか?
How much is the bail money?
Standard question format for price/amount.
弁護士が保釈をお願いしました。
The lawyer asked for bail.
Uses 'onegaishimasu' for a polite request.
保釈が認められました。
Bail was granted.
Passive form of 'mitomeru' (to recognize/allow).
保釈のルールを守ります。
I will follow the bail rules.
Uses 'mamoru' meaning to follow or protect rules.
被告人は五百万円の保釈金で釈放された。
The defendant was released on five million yen bail.
Passive verb 'shakuhou sareta' used with 'hoshakukin'.
保釈申請が却下されたというニュースを見た。
I saw news that the bail application was rejected.
Noun clause ending in 'to iu' modifying 'nyuusu'.
彼は保釈中に逃亡してしまった。
He ended up fleeing while on bail.
'-te shimatta' indicates a regrettable action.
裁判所は彼の保釈を認めなかった。
The court did not allow his bail.
Negative past form of 'mitomeru'.
保釈金を用意するのは大変だ。
Preparing bail money is difficult.
Gerund 'yousuru no' used as a subject.
彼は保釈されて、家族に会えた。
He was bailed out and was able to see his family.
Potential form 'aeta' (could meet).
保釈の条件は厳しいですか?
Are the bail conditions strict?
Adjective 'kibishii' used in a question.
弁護士は保釈のために頑張っている。
The lawyer is working hard for the bail.
'...no tame ni' indicates purpose.
検察側は証拠隠滅の恐れがあるとして保釈に反対した。
The prosecution opposed bail, claiming there was a risk of evidence destruction.
'...to shite' means 'as' or 'on the grounds that'.
保釈金は裁判が終われば返還される。
Bail money is returned once the trial is over.
Conditional 'ba' and passive 'henkan sareru'.
彼は保釈の条件として、海外への渡航を禁じられた。
As a condition of bail, he was forbidden from traveling abroad.
Passive 'kinjirareta' (was forbidden).
多額の保釈金を納付し、被告人は身の自由を得た。
After paying a large amount of bail, the defendant gained his freedom.
Formal verb 'noufu shi' (paying/depositing).
保釈が取り消されると、再び収容されることになる。
If bail is revoked, the person will be detained again.
'...koto ni naru' indicates a resulting situation.
弁護士は保釈申請が通るように全力を尽くした。
The lawyer did his best so that the bail application would pass.
'...you ni' indicates a goal or purpose.
保釈中の被告人は、毎日警察に報告しなければならない。
The defendant on bail must report to the police every day.
'...nakereba naranai' indicates obligation.
その有名な政治家は、一億円の保釈金で保釈された。
That famous politician was released on 100 million yen bail.
Passive 'hoshaku sareta'.
裁判所は逃亡の恐れがないと判断し、保釈を許可した。
The court judged there was no risk of flight and permitted bail.
Verb 'handan shi' (judging) connecting the sentence.
保釈保証業者を利用して、保釈金を用意するケースもある。
There are cases where bail money is prepared using a bail bond agent.
Noun 'keesu' (case) modified by a relative clause.
保釈決定に対して、検察が準抗告を申し立てた。
The prosecution filed a quasi-appeal against the bail decision.
Compound noun 'hoshaku kettei' (bail decision).
被告人が保釈条件に違反したため、保釈金が没収された。
Because the defendant violated bail conditions, the bail money was confiscated.
Passive 'bosshuu sareta' (was confiscated).
保釈の権利は、憲法上の人権と密接に関わっている。
The right to bail is closely related to constitutional human rights.
Adverb 'missetsu ni' (closely).
彼は保釈されてから、裁判の準備に専念している。
Since being bailed out, he has been concentrating on trial preparation.
'...te kara' indicates 'since/after doing'.
保釈金の額は、被告人の資産状況を考慮して決められる。
The amount of bail is decided by considering the defendant's financial situation.
'...o kouryo shite' (considering...).
日本では、否認事件において保釈が認められにくい傾向がある。
In Japan, there is a tendency for bail to be difficult to obtain in cases where the charges are denied.
Adjective 'mitomerare-nikui' (hard to be granted).
人質司法と批判される日本の保釈制度には、改善の余地がある。
There is room for improvement in Japan's bail system, which is criticized as 'hostage justice'.
Relative clause 'hitojichi shiho to hihan sareru' modifying 'seido'.
保釈中の被告人の所在を確認するため、GPS装置の装着が検討されている。
The use of GPS devices is being considered to confirm the location of defendants on bail.
Noun 'souchaku' (wearing/attaching) as a subject.
弁護人は、被告人の健康状態を理由に保釈の必要性を訴えた。
The defense attorney argued the necessity of bail based on the defendant's health condition.
'...o riyuu ni' (using ... as a reason).
保釈金没収の制裁は、被告人の出廷を担保するための強力な手段である。
The sanction of bail forfeiture is a powerful means to guarantee the defendant's appearance in court.
Noun 'danpo' (guarantee/collateral).
裁判官は、証拠隠滅の蓋然性が低いと見て保釈を認める判断を下した。
The judge judged that the probability of evidence destruction was low and decided to grant bail.
Technical term 'gaizensei' (probability).
保釈申請の却下に対する抗告が認められ、逆転で保釈が決まった。
The appeal against the rejection of the bail application was granted, and bail was decided in a reversal.
Noun 'gyakuten' (reversal).
保釈中の身でありながらメディアに露出することは、裁判官の心証を悪くする恐れがある。
Appearing in the media while on bail may worsen the judge's impression of the defendant.
Noun 'shinshou' (impression/conviction of a judge).
権利保釈の例外規定が広範に適用されている現状は、問題視されている。
The current situation where exception clauses for bail as a right are broadly applied is seen as problematic.
Passive 'mondai-shi sarete iru' (is being viewed as a problem).
保釈制度の趣旨は、被告人の防御権を保障し、不当な身体拘束を防ぐことにある。
The purpose of the bail system lies in guaranteeing the defendant's right to defense and preventing unjust physical restraint.
Noun 'shushi' (purpose/intent) used with 'ni aru'.
保釈保証金の額が被告人の経済力に見合わない場合、それは実質的な保釈の否定となる。
If the bail amount is not commensurate with the defendant's economic power, it constitutes a substantive denial of bail.
Adjective 'jisshitsu-teki na' (substantive/actual).
海外逃亡を企てた被告人の保釈取り消しは、司法の威信に関わる重大な事態である。
The revocation of bail for a defendant who attempted to flee abroad is a serious matter affecting the prestige of the judiciary.
Noun 'ishin' (prestige/dignity).
職権保釈の積極的な活用は、未決拘禁の長期化を是正するための鍵となる。
The active use of discretionary bail is key to correcting the prolongation of pre-trial detention.
Noun 'zesei' (correction/rectification).
保釈条件としての住居制限は、被告人の私生活の自由を著しく制約する側面を持つ。
Residential restrictions as a bail condition have an aspect of significantly constraining the defendant's freedom in their private life.
Adverb 'ichijirushiku' (significantly/remarkably).
検察官による保釈への異議申し立てが常態化している現状は、適正手続きの観点から危惧される。
The current situation where objections to bail by prosecutors have become normalized is a cause for concern from the perspective of due process.
Noun 'joutai-ka' (normalization/becoming a regular state).
保釈中に再犯に及んだ場合の社会的影響は計り知れず、慎重な判断が求められる。
The social impact of committing a repeat offense while on bail is immeasurable, requiring cautious judgment.
Adjective 'hakari-shirezu' (immeasurable).
電子監視制度の導入が、保釈の許可率向上に寄与するかどうかが注視されている。
Whether the introduction of an electronic monitoring system will contribute to an increase in the bail approval rate is being closely watched.
Noun 'chuushi' (close observation).
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— Rejection of a bail application. A common legal outcome.
保釈申請の却下に抗告する。
— The official court decision to permit bail.
保釈許可決定が出た。
— Fleeing while out on bail. A serious crime and news topic.
保釈中の逃亡は許されない。
— Re-applying for bail after a previous rejection.
保釈の再申請を準備する。
— Bail as a legal right under specific conditions.
権利保釈が適用されるケースだ。
— Bail granted at the judge's discretion.
裁判官の判断で職権保釈となった。
— A bail bond company that helps pay the deposit.
保釈保証業者に相談する。
— Relaxing the strict rules of one's bail.
保釈条件の緩和を求める。
— The return of bail money after the trial.
保釈金返還の手続きを行う。
자주 혼동되는 단어
General release. Hoshaku is a specific type of release involving bail money.
Parole. Hoshaku is pre-trial; Karishakuhou is post-conviction.
Suspended sentence. Hoshaku is temporary freedom during a trial; Shikkou Yuuyo is a sentence where you don't go to jail.
관용어 및 표현
— Being in the state of being out on bail. It implies a precarious freedom.
保釈の身であることを忘れるな。
Formal/Dramatic— Money talks even in hell. Often cited when discussing high bail amounts.
保釈金が高すぎて、地獄の沙汰も金次第だと感じた。
Proverbial— Connected by a single layer of neck skin (barely surviving). Used when bail is granted at the last second.
保釈が認められ、首の皮一枚で繋がった。
Idiomatic— Preaching to the Buddha (teaching someone who knows more). Uses the same 'shaku' kanji.
弁護士に法律を教えるのは釈迦に説法だ。
Common Idiom— A bird in a cage. Describes someone in detention before bail.
保釈されるまでは籠の鳥だった。
Literary— To disappear behind the clouds (go into hiding). What someone might do if they jump bail.
保釈中に雲隠れしてしまった。
Idiomatic— To prove one's innocence. The ultimate goal after getting bail.
保釈中に身の潔白を証明する準備をする。
Formal— To be tied with a rope (to be arrested). The state before bail.
お縄を頂戴したが、すぐに保釈された。
Archaic/Humorous— To slip through the net of the law. Used if bail is used to escape justice.
保釈制度を利用して法の網を潜る。
Critical— A free person. Often used to contrast with the period before bail.
保釈されて、ようやく自由の身になった。
General혼동하기 쉬운
Sounds like 'hosshaku'.
'Hoshaku' is bail; 'hosshaku' is a Buddhist priest's whisk. The double 's' makes a big difference.
保釈を申請する vs 払子(ほっしゃく)を振る。
Both use 'shaku'.
'Hoshaku' is bail; 'shakumei' is an explanation or vindication. One is a legal status, the other is an action of speaking.
彼は記者会見で釈明した。
Starts with 'ho' and sounds legal.
'Hoshaku' is release; 'hobaku' is arrest/binding. They are opposites.
犯人を捕縛する。
Sounds like 'shaku'.
'Hoshaku' is bail; 'shakuyou' is borrowing. Totally different meanings.
お金を借用する。
Both involve being set free.
'Hoshaku' is bail; 'onsha' is an amnesty or pardon from the government. 'Onsha' is much rarer.
天皇の即位に伴い恩赦が行われた。
문장 패턴
[Person] は [Money] で保釈されました。
彼は五百万円で保釈されました。
[Person] は保釈中に [Action] した。
彼は保釈中に家で本を読んだ。
裁判所は [Reason] を理由に保釈を認めた。
裁判所は健康状態を理由に保釈を認めた。
[Reason] の恐れがあるため、保釈は却下された。
証拠隠滅の恐れがあるため、保釈は却下された。
保釈の条件として [Condition] が課せられた。
保釈の条件として海外渡航禁止が課せられた。
保釈制度の運用における [Issue] が議論の的となっている。
保釈制度の運用における不透明さが議論の的となっている。
弁護士は [Person] の保釈を申請した。
弁護士は被告人の保釈を申請した。
保釈金は [Condition] 後に返還される。
保釈金は裁判終了後に返還される。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
High in news and legal contexts; rare in casual daily life.
-
Using 'hoshaku' for parole.
→
仮釈放 (karishakuhou)
Bail (hoshaku) is before the trial ends. Parole (karishakuhou) is after serving time in prison.
-
Saying 'hoshaku shita' when you were the one released.
→
保釈された (hoshaku sareta)
If you are the one getting out, you must use the passive voice.
-
Using 'hoshaku' to mean 'bailing on a friend'.
→
ドタキャンする (dotakyan suru)
'Hoshaku' is a heavy legal term and cannot be used for social situations.
-
Confusing 'hoshaku' with 'shakuhou'.
→
Depends on context.
If money is involved and it's pre-trial, use 'hoshaku'. If it's just a general release, use 'shakuhou'.
-
Writing the kanji '釈' with '田' at the bottom.
→
釈 (with '干' at the bottom)
This is a common kanji writing error even for some natives.
팁
Use with Passive Voice
In 90% of cases, you will see '保釈された' (was bailed out). Using the active '保釈した' usually refers to the court or judge's action.
Learn the Compound
Always learn '保釈' along with '保釈金' (hoshakukin). They are almost inseparable in news reports.
Watch the News
If you want to hear this word in the wild, watch Japanese news when a major arrest happens. You'll hear it dozens of times.
Suru-Noun Status
Remember it's a noun that can become a verb. '保釈申請する' is a very common way to say 'apply for bail'.
Right Side of 釈
The right side of '釈' is '釆' over '干'. Don't confuse it with '番' (which has '田' at the bottom).
Not for 'Bailing Out' Water
Never use 'hoshaku' for removing water from a boat or canceling plans. It is strictly for people leaving jail.
Post-Indictment Only
Remember that in Japan, you can't get bail until you are officially charged (indicted). This is a key difference from many Western systems.
The 'Guarantee' Kanji
Focus on the '保' (guarantee). You are guaranteeing your return with money.
Pitch Accent
Listen for the rise in pitch after the first syllable: ho-SHAKU.
Hoshaku vs Karishakuhou
Hoshaku = Trial is coming. Karishakuhou = Prison is ending early.
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'HO' as 'Home' and 'SHAKU' as 'Shackles'. You are 'HO-SHAKU'-ing someone when you let them go 'Home' from their 'Shackles' by paying money.
시각적 연상
Imagine a giant golden key (the money) unlocking a prison door, and the person walking through the door is holding a sign that says 'Home'.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find a news article from 'NHK News Web Easy' that mentions '保釈' and summarize why the person was released.
어원
The word '保釈' is composed of two kanji characters. '保' (ho) comes from an ancient pictograph of a person carrying a child, meaning to protect, preserve, or guarantee. '釈' (shaku) has roots in Buddhism (referring to Shakyamuni Buddha) but also means to explain, unloose, or set free.
원래 의미: To guarantee the release of a person.
Sino-Japanese (Kango).문화적 맥락
Be careful when discussing bail with Japanese people, as it implies a serious criminal charge. It is not a casual topic.
In the US or UK, bail is often seen as a standard right for most non-violent crimes. In Japan, it is much harder to get and seen as a special permission.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
News Broadcast
- 保釈が認められました
- 保釈金は一千万円です
- 検察は反対しています
- 被告人は保釈されました
Legal Drama
- 保釈を申請しましょう
- 証拠隠滅の恐れはありません
- 保釈条件を守ってください
- 却下されました
Lawyer's Office
- 保釈金を用意できますか?
- 身元引受人が必要です
- 申請書を提出します
- 条件を確認しましょう
Newspaper Headline
- ○○被告、保釈申請
- 保釈金、過去最高額
- 保釈中の逃亡に批判
- 裁判所、保釈を許可
Social Debate
- 日本の保釈制度の問題点
- 人質司法を改善すべきだ
- 保釈の権利を守る
- 公平な保釈金の設定
대화 시작하기
"ニュースで見たあの有名人、保釈されたみたいだね。 (That celebrity in the news seems to have been bailed out.)"
"保釈金が一億円って、高すぎない? (Isn't 100 million yen too much for bail?)"
"日本の保釈制度についてどう思う? (What do you think about Japan's bail system?)"
"保釈中に逃げたニュース、びっくりしたよね。 (The news about someone fleeing while on bail was shocking, wasn't it?)"
"ドラマでよく保釈のシーンがあるけど、実際はどうなんだろう。 (There are often bail scenes in dramas, but I wonder what it's like in reality.)"
일기 주제
もし自分が弁護士だったら、保釈を認めさせるためにどんな理由を裁判官に言いますか? (If you were a lawyer, what reasons would you give a judge to grant bail?)
「保釈」という言葉をニュースで聞いた時の感想を書いてください。 (Write your thoughts when you hear the word 'bail' on the news.)
保釈金が高額であることのメリットとデメリットについて考えてください。 (Think about the pros and cons of high bail amounts.)
保釈中に守らなければならないルールを5つ想像して書いてください。 (Imagine and write five rules that must be followed while on bail.)
自由と法律の関係について、「保釈」という言葉を使って説明してください。 (Explain the relationship between freedom and the law using the word 'bail'.)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문釈放 (shakuhou) is a general term for being released from custody for any reason. 保釈 (hoshaku) is a specific legal process where a defendant is released after being indicted by paying bail money. All hoshaku is a form of shakuhou, but not all shakuhou is hoshaku.
Yes, as long as the defendant follows all bail conditions and appears for all court dates, the 保釈金 (hoshakukin) is returned in full after the trial ends, regardless of whether the verdict is guilty or not guilty.
No. In Japan, bail is often denied if there is a risk of evidence destruction or flight. It is particularly difficult to get bail if the defendant denies the charges, a situation often criticized as 'hostage justice'.
A lawyer can typically apply for bail only after the suspect has been formally indicted (起訴 - kiso). Before that, during the investigation phase, the person is held in detention (勾留 - kouryuu) without the option of bail.
If conditions are violated, the court can revoke the bail (保釈取り消し), and the person will be sent back to the detention center. Additionally, the bail money may be partially or fully confiscated (没収).
It varies wildly. For minor crimes, it might be 1.5 to 3 million yen. For major corporate or political scandals, it can be hundreds of millions or even billions of yen.
It is a critical term used to describe the Japanese practice of denying bail to defendants who do not confess, effectively using long-term detention as 'hostage' to force a confession.
There are no private 'bounty hunters' like in the US, but there are organizations like the 'Japan Bail Support Association' that provide loans to cover bail money for those who cannot afford it.
Generally, no. Prohibiting overseas travel is a standard condition of bail in Japan. The defendant's passport is often held by their lawyer or the court.
No, 'hoshaku' is strictly a criminal law term. Civil cases do not involve detention or bail in the same way.
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write a sentence using '保釈' and '認められる'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He was released on 2 million yen bail.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a lawyer applying for bail.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain '保釈金' in simple Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The bail application was rejected.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '保釈中'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'There is a risk of evidence destruction.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about bail conditions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Bail money is returned after the trial.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '身元引受人'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The prosecution opposed the bail.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a famous person getting bail.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The court decided to grant bail.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about fleeing while on bail.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The right to bail is important.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '人質司法'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Bail was revoked.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about the amount of bail money.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He is waiting for the bail decision.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '職権保釈'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce '保釈' correctly with the pitch accent.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'He was released on bail' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask 'How much is the bail money?' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain what 'hoshaku' is in one sentence.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lawyer applied for bail' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Bail was rejected' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I am currently on bail' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Please follow the bail conditions' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain the difference between 'hoshaku' and 'shakuhou'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'There is a risk of flight' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Bail money will be returned' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The prosecution opposed the bail' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Bail was granted' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I need a guarantor' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Bail was revoked' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the pros of the bail system in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The bail amount is 5 million yen' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I will pay the bail money' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The judge hit the gavel' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Bail is a human right' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to the sentence: '被告人は保釈された。' What happened to the defendant?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈金は三千万円です。' How much is the bail?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈申請が却下されました。' Was bail granted?
Listen to the sentence: '彼は保釈中に逃亡しました。' What did he do while on bail?
Listen to the sentence: '証拠隠滅の恐れがあります。' What is the risk?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈条件を緩和してください。' What is being requested?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈金は返還されます。' What happens to the money?
Listen to the sentence: '検察が準抗告しました。' Who appealed?
Listen to the sentence: '身元引受人は誰ですか?' What is being asked?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈が取り消されました。' What happened to the bail status?
Listen to the sentence: '彼は保釈中の身です。' What is his current status?
Listen to the sentence: '多額の保釈金を納付した。' What did they do with the money?
Listen to the sentence: '裁判所は保釈を許可した。' Did the court say yes or no?
Listen to the sentence: '人質司法への批判。' What is being criticized?
Listen to the sentence: '保釈保証業者に頼む。' Who are they asking for help?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '保釈' (hoshaku) is the specific term for legal bail. It is used when a defendant is released from detention before their trial ends, usually by paying a significant sum of money. Example: '彼は保釈金一千万円で保釈された' (He was released on 10 million yen bail).
- 保釈 (hoshaku) means 'bail' in a legal context, referring to pre-trial release.
- It requires a financial deposit called 保釈金 (hoshakukin) to guarantee court appearance.
- In Japan, it is typically only available after a formal indictment (kiso) has occurred.
- Commonly heard in news and legal dramas; it's a formal, technical noun.
Use with Passive Voice
In 90% of cases, you will see '保釈された' (was bailed out). Using the active '保釈した' usually refers to the court or judge's action.
Learn the Compound
Always learn '保釈' along with '保釈金' (hoshakukin). They are almost inseparable in news reports.
Watch the News
If you want to hear this word in the wild, watch Japanese news when a major arrest happens. You'll hear it dozens of times.
Suru-Noun Status
Remember it's a noun that can become a verb. '保釈申請する' is a very common way to say 'apply for bail'.
예시
保釈金を払います。
관련 콘텐츠
Law 관련 단어
告訴
A1피해자가 수사 기관에 범죄 사실을 신고하고 범인의 처벌을 구하는 공식적인 고소. 친고죄에서는 기소의 조건이 됩니다.
協定
A1둘 이상의 당사자 사이에서 맺어진 공식적인 합의나 약속을 의미합니다.
恩赦
A1정부가 형벌을 면제하거나 권리를 회복시켜 주는 일.
上訴
A1하급 법원의 판결에 불복하여 상급 법원에 심판을 청구하는 일. 항소, 상고, 항고를 통틀어 이르는 말.
可決
A1의회나 위원회 등에서 제출된 안건을 찬성하여 결정함. '가결'은 안건이 통과되었음을 의미합니다.
逮捕
A1경찰 등 수사 기관이 죄를 지었다고 의심되는 사람의 신체의 자유를 구속하는 법적 절차.
放火
A1고의로 불을 질러 건물이나 물건 등을 태우는 일. 일본 법률에서는 매우 무거운 죄로 다루어집니다.
暴行
A1타인의 신체에 대해 불법적인 물리력을 행사하는 것. 폭행. 법률이나 뉴스에서 자주 사용됨.
背任
A1배임. 임무에 위배되는 행위로 이익을 취하고 손해를 가하는 것.
賄賂
A1뇌물은 자신에게 유리하게 처리해 달라는 부탁과 함께 공직자 등에게 주는 부정한 돈이나 물건을 말합니다.