妨げ in 30 Seconds
- A noun meaning hindrance, obstacle, or obstruction.
- Used for things that prevent progress or action.
- Can be personal, societal, or academic.
- Often used with particles like 'を' or structures like 'となる'.
The Japanese word 妨げ (さまたげ - samatage) is a noun that refers to something that hinders, obstructs, or gets in the way of progress, action, or development. Think of it as a roadblock, a snag, or a persistent impediment. It's a versatile word used in various contexts, from personal struggles to societal challenges.
In everyday conversations, you might hear 妨げ used when discussing obstacles in achieving a goal. For instance, a lack of resources could be a 妨げ to starting a new business, or a personal fear might be a 妨げ to pursuing a dream. It carries a sense of something that actively impedes or prevents advancement.
Beyond personal matters, 妨げ is also used to describe larger, systemic issues. For example, outdated policies could be a 妨げ to economic growth, or environmental pollution can be a significant 妨げ to public health. The word implies a resistance to change or forward momentum.
In academic or formal settings, 妨げ can be used to discuss factors that hinder research, learning, or scientific progress. For instance, a lack of funding or access to data might be considered a 妨げ in a research project. It is a useful term for articulating challenges and identifying areas that need attention for improvement.
The nuance of 妨げ lies in its focus on the act of obstruction. It's not just a passive state of being difficult; it's something actively preventing something else from happening or developing. Understanding this word allows for a more precise expression of challenges and obstacles in Japanese.
Mastering the usage of 妨げ (さまたげ - samatage) involves understanding its grammatical role and common sentence structures. As a noun, it typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence, or as part of a larger phrase indicating something that causes an obstruction.
One of the most frequent patterns is using 妨げ followed by 'となる' (to naru), meaning "to become a hindrance" or "to serve as an obstacle." This structure is excellent for explaining causal relationships where something is identified as a barrier.
Example: その計画の遅延は、多くの人々の生活に妨げとなった。
Another common construction uses 妨げ with the particle 'を' (o) to directly indicate what is being hindered or obstructed. This emphasizes the direct impact of the hindrance.
Example: 健康問題が彼のキャリアの妨げになっている。
You can also use 妨げ as the subject of a sentence, especially when discussing abstract concepts or general obstacles.
Example: 妨げを取り除くことが、成功への鍵だ。
When using 妨げ in relation to a verb or action, it often appears with particles like 'に' (ni) or 'を' (o), depending on the nuance. For instance, '～の妨げになる' (ni naru) means 'to become a hindrance to ~', while '～を妨げる' (samatageru) is the verb form meaning 'to hinder'.
Example: 情報不足は、意思決定の妨げになり得る。
Pay attention to the surrounding particles and verbs to accurately convey the meaning of obstruction or impediment. The context will often guide you to the most natural phrasing.
You'll encounter 妨げ (さまたげ - samatage) in a variety of real-world situations, reflecting its broad applicability. Its usage often signals a discussion about challenges, limitations, or issues that are preventing something from proceeding smoothly.
In the realm of news and current events, 妨げ is frequently used to describe obstacles in societal progress, economic development, or policy implementation. For instance, a news report might discuss how bureaucratic red tape is a 妨げ to small business growth.
Academic and research contexts also heavily utilize this word. When discussing the challenges faced in scientific research, educational reforms, or technological advancements, 妨げ helps articulate the specific impediments.
In business and economics, you'll hear it in discussions about market barriers, logistical challenges, or factors that slow down production or innovation. For example, a company might identify a shortage of skilled labor as a significant 妨げ to its expansion plans.
Personal development and self-help discussions often feature 妨げ. People might talk about their own internal struggles, such as procrastination or fear of failure, as 妨げ to achieving their goals. This makes the word relatable on an individual level.
Even in casual conversations, when people are discussing difficulties they're facing, they might use 妨げ to express what's holding them back. For example, someone might say, "My busy schedule is a 妨げ to exercising more."
The word is also common in literature and formal writing, where it adds a sophisticated tone when describing complex issues or abstract barriers.
When learning 妨げ (さまたげ - samatage), learners often make a few common errors that can affect the clarity and naturalness of their Japanese. Being aware of these pitfalls can significantly improve your usage.
One frequent mistake is confusing the noun 妨げ with its verb form, 妨げる (さまたげる - samatageru). While related, they have different grammatical functions. Using 妨げ where the verb is needed, or vice versa, leads to ungrammatical sentences.
For example, saying 「進歩を妨げです」 (shinpo wo samatage desu) is incorrect. The correct phrasing would be 「進歩を妨げています」 (shinpo wo samatagete imasu) if you mean "it is hindering progress." If you mean "it is a hindrance," you would say 「進歩の妨げです」 (shinpo no samatage desu).
Another common error is the misuse of particles. While 妨げ can function as a subject or object, the particles used with it can change its role and meaning. Forgetting particles or using the wrong ones can make the sentence confusing.
For instance, saying 「私の目標の妨げ、時間がない」 (watashi no mokuhyou no samatage, jikan ga nai) is awkward. It's better to say 「私の目標の妨げとなっているのは時間がないことです」 (watashi no mokuhyou no samatage to natte iru no wa jikan ga nai koto desu) meaning "What is becoming a hindrance to my goals is that I don't have time."
Learners might also overuse 妨げ where a simpler or more specific word would be more appropriate. While 妨げ is a strong word for obstruction, sometimes a more general term for "problem" (問題 - mondai) or "difficulty" (困難 - konnan) might fit better depending on the context.
Finally, pronunciation can be a subtle challenge. While not as complex as some other Japanese words, ensuring correct intonation and stress on the syllables (sa-ma-ta-ge) will contribute to sounding more natural.
In Japanese, several words can express the concept of a hindrance or obstacle, each with subtle differences in nuance and usage. Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.
妨げ (さまたげ - samatage) specifically refers to something that actively obstructs or impedes progress. It often implies a persistent or significant barrier.
A very common and general term is
- 障害 (しょうがい - shōgai)
- This is a broad term for "obstacle," "barrier," or "disability." It can refer to physical obstacles, systemic issues, or personal challenges. It's often used in more formal contexts than 妨げ and can also refer to disabilities. Example: 交通障害 (traffic obstacle), 身体障害 (physical disability).
Another useful word is
- 障壁 (しょうへき - shōheki)
- This translates to "barrier" or "wall." It often implies a more solid or formidable obstacle, like a political barrier or a psychological barrier. It's more metaphorical than 障害 in some contexts. Example: 言語の障壁 (language barrier), 心理的な障壁 (psychological barrier).
When referring to difficulties or problems in a more general sense, you can use
- 困難 (こんなん - konnan)
- This means "difficulty" or "hardship." It's less about active obstruction and more about the challenging nature of a situation. Example: 多くの困難を乗り越えた (overcame many difficulties).
For less severe or more temporary issues,
- 問題 (もんだい - mondai)
- This simply means "problem" or "issue." It's a very general term and doesn't necessarily imply active obstruction like 妨げ does. Example: いくつかの問題がある (there are some problems).
In summary:
- 妨げ (samatage)
- Active obstruction, hindrance, impediment.
- 障害 (shōgai)
- General obstacle, barrier, or disability.
- 障壁 (shōheki)
- Solid barrier, often metaphorical (like a wall).
- 困難 (konnan)
- Difficulty, hardship (describes the challenge itself).
- 問題 (mondai)
- General problem or issue.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 妨 itself is composed of '女' (woman) and '分' (divide, separate). Historically, it was sometimes used in contexts related to restricting women's roles or separating them, though its modern usage is much broader and devoid of such specific gendered connotations. The noun form 妨げ carries the general sense of obstruction, regardless of the kanji's historical components.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'g' sound, which is closer to a nasal 'ng' sound in some contexts but here is a hard 'g'.
- Incorrectly stressing syllables, leading to an unnatural rhythm.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding words.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B2 level. The word <mark>妨げ</mark> is commonly encountered in intermediate to advanced reading materials, especially in news articles, essays, and formal discussions about challenges and obstacles.
CEFR B2 level. Using <mark>妨げ</mark> correctly in writing requires understanding its nuances, grammatical patterns, and appropriate contexts to avoid confusion with similar words or verb forms.
CEFR B2 level. Learners may find it challenging to spontaneously use <mark>妨げ</mark> in conversation, often preferring simpler terms. Mastering its usage in speaking requires practice with its common phrases and grammatical structures.
CEFR B2 level. While the pronunciation is not overly complex, understanding <mark>妨げ</mark> in spoken Japanese requires familiarity with its various contexts and sentence patterns, especially when it's part of more complex sentences.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using '～となる' (to naru) to indicate 'to become' or 'to serve as'.
その遅延は、プロジェクトの妨げとなった。
Using '～になる' (ni naru) to indicate 'to be' or 'to become'.
健康問題が、彼のキャリアの妨げになっている。
Using the verb form '妨げる' (samatageru) to mean 'to hinder' or 'to obstruct'.
彼の無責任な行動が、チームの士気を妨げた。
Using particles 'を' (wo) and 'が' (ga) with nouns to indicate the subject or object.
情報不足が、意思決定の妨げとなっている。
Using '～ない限り' (nai kagiri) to express 'unless' or 'if not'.
構造的な妨げを改革しない限り、平等な機会は提供されない。
Examples by Level
雨は私の散歩の妨げになった。
The rain became a hindrance to my walk.
Noun + になった (ni natta) - became.
遅刻は妨げです。
Being late is a hindrance.
Noun + です (desu) - is.
騒音は勉強の妨げだ。
Noise is a hindrance to studying.
Noun + だ (da) - is (informal).
お金がないのは妨げです。
Not having money is a hindrance.
Phrase + のは (no wa) + Noun + です (desu).
疲労が妨げになった。
Fatigue became a hindrance.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + になった (ni natta).
この道は妨げがある。
This road has an obstacle.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + が (ga) + あります (arimasu).
彼の言葉は妨げだった。
His words were a hindrance.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + だった (datta) - was.
それは妨げではありません。
That is not a hindrance.
Noun + ではありません (dewa arimasen) - is not.
時間不足は、プロジェクトの進捗における妨げとなった。
Lack of time became a hindrance to the project's progress.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + となった (to natta).
健康上の問題が、彼のキャリアの妨げになっている。
Health problems are becoming a hindrance to his career.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になっている (ni natte iru).
古いシステムは、新しい技術導入の妨げだ。
The old system is a hindrance to adopting new technology.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + だ (da).
コミュニケーション不足は、チームワークの妨げになる。
Lack of communication becomes a hindrance to teamwork.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になる (ni naru).
この法律は、経済発展の妨げになると考えられている。
This law is thought to become a hindrance to economic development.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になると考えられている (ni naru to kangaerarete iru).
彼の内気な性格は、新しい友達を作る妨げだった。
His shy personality was a hindrance to making new friends.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + だった (datta).
学習意欲の低下は、学業成績の妨げとなる。
A decline in the will to learn becomes a hindrance to academic performance.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となる (to naru).
外部からの干渉は、プロジェクトの妨げとなり得る。
External interference can become a hindrance to the project.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となり得る (to nariuru).
情報不足は、効果的な意思決定の妨げとなることが多い。
Lack of information often becomes a hindrance to effective decision-making.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となることが多い (to naru koto ga ooi).
古いインフラは、都市の近代化における深刻な妨げである。
Old infrastructure is a serious hindrance to the modernization of the city.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + である (dearu).
過度な規制は、自由な市場経済の妨げになると批判されている。
Excessive regulations are criticized for becoming a hindrance to a free market economy.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になると批判されている (ni naru to hihan sarete iru).
彼の消極的な態度は、チームの士気を高める上での妨げとなっていた。
His passive attitude was a hindrance to boosting the team's morale.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となっていた (to natte ita).
環境問題への無関心は、持続可能な社会の構築における大きな妨げです。
Indifference to environmental issues is a big hindrance to building a sustainable society.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + です (desu).
技術的な妨げを克服するために、専門家たちが集まった。
Experts gathered to overcome the technical hindrances.
Noun + を (wo) + Noun + 克服するために (kokufuku suru tame ni).
教育制度の硬直性が、個々の才能の開花を妨げている。
The rigidity of the education system is hindering the blooming of individual talents.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + 妨げている (samatagete iru).
不十分な資金調達は、研究開発の妨げとなり得る。
Insufficient funding can become a hindrance to research and development.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となり得る (to nariuru).
官僚主義的な手続きは、イノベーションの推進における潜在的な妨げとしてしばしば指摘される。
Bureaucratic procedures are often pointed out as a potential hindrance to the promotion of innovation.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + としてしばしば指摘される (toshite shibashiba shiteki sareru).
社会的な偏見は、マイノリティグループの社会進出における根深い妨げとなっている。
Social prejudice has become a deep-rooted hindrance to the social advancement of minority groups.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + となっている (to natte iru).
気候変動への対策の遅れは、地球規模での持続可能性の妨げとなるだろう。
The delay in measures against climate change will become a hindrance to global sustainability.
Noun + の (no) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となるだろう (to naru darō).
個人のプライバシー保護と公共の安全確保との間の妨げをどのように解消するかが、喫緊の課題である。
How to resolve the hindrance between personal privacy protection and ensuring public safety is an urgent issue.
Noun + との間の (to no aida no) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + どのように解消するかが (dono yō ni kaishō suru ka ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
過去のトラウマは、現在における人間関係の構築の妨げとなり得る。
Past trauma can become a hindrance to building relationships in the present.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となり得る (to nariuru).
技術革新のスピードが、既存の産業構造の妨げになるという見方もある。
There is also a view that the speed of technological innovation becomes a hindrance to the existing industrial structure.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になるという見方もある (ni naru to iu mikata mo aru).
教育における格差は、社会全体の発展の妨げとなる。
Disparities in education become a hindrance to the development of society as a whole.
Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + となる (to naru).
過剰な情報化社会は、人々の深い思考の妨げになりかねない。
An overly information-saturated society can become a hindrance to people's deep thinking.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + になりかねない (ni narikanenai).
グローバル化の進展は、地域文化の独自性の維持にとって、しばしば妨げとなりうるという懸念がある。
There is a concern that the advancement of globalization can often become a hindrance to maintaining the uniqueness of local cultures.
Noun + の (no) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + にとって (ni totte) + Noun + となりうるという懸念がある (to nariuru to iu kenen ga aru).
政治的な対立は、国民の団結を妨げ、国家の発展を遅延させる主要因となっている。
Political conflict hinders national unity and has become a major factor in delaying the nation's development.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + させ、Noun + となっている (to natte iru).
情報過多による注意散漫は、現代社会における創造性の開花を妨げる傾向がある。
Distraction due to information overload tends to hinder the blossoming of creativity in modern society.
Noun + による (ni yoru) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + 傾向がある (keikō ga aru).
歴史的な妨げを乗り越え、真の国際協調を実現するためには、相互理解と信頼醸成が不可欠である。
Mutual understanding and trust-building are indispensable for overcoming historical hindrances and achieving true international cooperation.
Noun + を (wo) + Noun + し、Noun + が (ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
技術進歩がもたらす恩恵と、それが社会構造に与える妨げとのバランスをどう取るかが問われている。
How to balance the benefits brought by technological advancement with the hindrances it poses to the social structure is being questioned.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + に (ni) + 与える (ataeru) + Noun + との (to no) + Noun + を (wo) + どう取るかが (dō toru ka ga) + Noun + と問われている (to towarete iru).
経済的自立は、多くの女性が直面する妨げ
Economic independence is a hindrance many women face, and its resolution is a challenge for society as a whole.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + であり、Noun + は (wa) + Noun + である (dearu).
教育システムにおける構造的な妨げを改革しない限り、真の平等な機会は提供されないだろう。
Unless structural hindrances in the education system are reformed, truly equal opportunities will not be provided.
Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + しない限り (shinai kagiri) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + されないだろう (sarenai darō).
過度な競争原理は、協力的な学習環境の形成を妨げる。
Excessive competitive principles hinder the formation of a cooperative learning environment.
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun.
人類が直面する喫緊の課題、すなわち気候変動やパンデミックといったグローバルな妨げに対処するためには、国際社会の結束が不可欠である。
To address the urgent challenges humanity faces, namely global hindrances such as climate change and pandemics, the unity of the international community is indispensable.
Noun + 、すなわち (sunawachi) + Noun + や (ya) + Noun + といった (to itta) + Noun + に (ni) + 対処するためには (taisho suru tame ni wa) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
自己欺瞞という内的な妨げは、個人の成長を阻害するだけでなく、他者との健全な関係構築をも蝕む。
The internal hindrance of self-deception not only obstructs individual growth but also erodes the building of healthy relationships with others.
Noun + という (to iu) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + を (wo) + だけでなく、Noun + との (to no) + Noun + も (mo) + Noun.
情報技術の急速な進化は、一方でコミュニケーションの利便性を飛躍的に向上させたが、他方で、深い思索や内省を妨げるという皮肉な妨げも生み出している。
While the rapid evolution of information technology has dramatically improved communication convenience, it has also ironically created hindrances that obstruct deep contemplation and introspection.
Noun + は、Noun + を (wo) + 向上させたが、Noun + で、Noun + を (wo) + Noun + という (to iu) + Noun + も (mo) + Noun.
国家間の経済的妨げを解消し、真の自由貿易体制を確立するためには、保護主義的な政策からの脱却が不可欠である。
To resolve economic hindrances between nations and establish a true free trade system, a departure from protectionist policies is indispensable.
Noun + を (wo) + Noun + し、Noun + を (wo) + Noun + するためには (suru tame ni wa) + Noun + からの (kara no) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
文化的アイデンティティの維持とグローバル社会への適応との間で生じる妨げは、現代において多くの共同体が直面する複雑な課題である。
The hindrances arising between the maintenance of cultural identity and adaptation to global society are complex challenges faced by many communities in the modern era.
Noun + と (to) + Noun + との (to no) + 間で (aida de) + 生じる (shōjiru) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + において (ni oite) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
個人の潜在能力の開花を妨げる要因は多岐にわたるが、教育機会の不均等はその中でも特に根深い妨げの一つと言える。
The factors that hinder the blossoming of individual potential are diverse, but educational inequality can be said to be one of the particularly deep-rooted hindrances among them.
Noun + の (no) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + 要因は (yōin wa) + Noun + だが、Noun + の (no) + Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の中でも (no naka demo) + Noun + の一つと言える (no hitotsu to ieru).
テクノロジーの進歩がもたらす恩恵と、それが人間の精神性や社会関係に与える妨げとの間には、常に緊張関係が存在する。
There is a constant tension between the benefits brought by technological advancement and the hindrances it poses to human spirituality and social relationships.
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + と、Noun + が (ga) + Noun + に (ni) + 与える (ataeru) + Noun + との (to no) + 間には (aida ni wa) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + する (suru).
真の民主主義の確立を妨げる構造的な欠陥を是正するためには、市民一人ひとりの積極的な関与が不可欠である。
Active participation of each citizen is indispensable for correcting the structural defects that hinder the establishment of true democracy.
Noun + の (no) + Noun + を (wo) + Noun + する (suru) + ためには (tame ni wa) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + が (ga) + Noun + である (dearu).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To become a hindrance to; to serve as an obstacle for.
コミュニケーション不足は、チームワークの妨げとなることがある。
— To be a hindrance to; to cause problems for.
彼の遅刻は、会議の進行の妨げになっている。
— To hinder, to obstruct, to impede (verb form).
この法律は、経済成長を妨げる可能性がある。
— Is becoming a hindrance to; is currently obstructing.
古いシステムが、業務効率の妨げになっている。
— Can become a hindrance to; has the potential to obstruct.
情報不足は、正しい判断の妨げになり得る。
— Is considered to be a hindrance to; is thought to obstruct.
過度な規制は、イノベーションの妨げだと考えられている。
— To remove hindrances; to clear obstacles.
成功への妨げを取り除くことが重要だ。
— There are no hindrances; nothing is obstructing.
この計画には、今のところ妨げはない。
— Problems that are becoming hindrances to...
地域開発の妨げになっている問題を解決する必要がある。
— Factors that become hindrances to...
学習の妨げとなる要因を特定することが大切だ。
Often Confused With
妨げ (samatage) refers to something that actively obstructs or impedes progress. 障害 (shōgai) is a broader term for an obstacle or barrier, and can also refer to disabilities. While similar, 妨げ often implies a more active hindrance.
妨げ (samatage) is a general hindrance. 障壁 (shōheki) implies a more solid, often metaphorical 'wall' or barrier, like a language barrier or cultural barrier, suggesting a more formidable obstacle.
妨げ (samatage) is a noun (hindrance). 妨げる (samatageru) is its verb form, meaning 'to hinder' or 'to obstruct'. They are closely related but used differently grammatically.
Idioms & Expressions
— To become an encumbrance or a burden, like chains on one's feet, hindering progress. Similar to 妨げ but emphasizes a heavy, restrictive burden.
過去の失敗の経験が、彼の新しい挑戦への足枷となった。
Metaphorical, neutral— To hit a wall; to encounter a significant obstacle or difficulty that halts progress. This is a very common idiom for facing a 妨げ that is hard to overcome.
プロジェクトの途中で、予期せぬ技術的な壁にぶつかってしまった。
Metaphorical, neutral— To dampen someone's enthusiasm or progress; to throw cold water on something. It implies interrupting or hindering a positive development.
せっかく盛り上がっていたのに、彼の否定的なコメントが水を差した。
Informal, negative— To interrupt someone or something abruptly, often breaking their flow or progress. Similar to 妨げ in the sense of stopping action.
話の途中で彼の腰を折るのは失礼だ。
Informal, negative— To be a hindrance or an impediment, like a shackle or fetter. Similar to 妨げ but often implies something that restricts freedom of action.
借金が、彼の将来設計の足かせとなっている。
Metaphorical, neutral— To get in the way, to disturb, to interfere. This is a more direct and often less formal way to say something is a 妨げ.
子供が勉強しているのに邪魔をするな。
Informal, negative— To hinder progress. This uses the verb form of 妨げ.
この渋滞は、目的地への進むを妨げる。
Neutral— To become an obstacle or impediment. Very similar in meaning and usage to 妨げとなる.
予想外の出来事が、計画の障害となった。
Formal, neutral— To build a barrier; to create a division or obstacle between people or groups.
誤解が、彼らの間に障壁を築いた。
Metaphorical, neutral— To face difficulties or hardships. While not a direct synonym for 妨げ, facing difficulties often implies encountering hindrances.
彼は多くの困難に直面しながらも、目標を達成した。
NeutralEasily Confused
Both words refer to obstacles or hindrances.
<mark>妨げ</mark> (samatage) emphasizes something that actively prevents or impedes progress, often implying a dynamic obstruction. <mark>障害</mark> (shōgai) is a more general term for an obstacle or barrier, and can also refer to disabilities. <mark>妨げ</mark> is often used for more abstract or process-related impediments, while <mark>障害</mark> can be more concrete or refer to a state.
新しい技術導入の<mark>妨げ</mark> (hindrance to adopting new technology) vs. 身体<mark>障害</mark> (physical disability).
Both words describe something that blocks progress.
<mark>妨げ</mark> (samatage) is a general term for a hindrance. <mark>障壁</mark> (shōheki) implies a more solid, often metaphorical 'wall' or barrier that is difficult to overcome. Think of <mark>妨げ</mark> as a snag and <mark>障壁</mark> as a wall. <mark>障壁</mark> is often used for abstract barriers like language or cultural differences.
コミュニケーション不足が<mark>妨げ</mark>となった (lack of communication became a hindrance) vs. 言語の<mark>障壁</mark>を乗り越える (overcome the language barrier).
Both relate to challenging situations.
<mark>妨げ</mark> (samatage) refers to something that actively obstructs or impedes progress. <mark>困難</mark> (konnan) means 'difficulty' or 'hardship' and describes the challenging nature of a situation itself, rather than necessarily an active obstruction. <mark>妨げ</mark> is the cause of the difficulty, while <mark>困難</mark> is the state of being difficult.
彼の怠惰が学習の<mark>妨げ</mark>だ (his laziness is a hindrance to learning) vs. 学習には多くの<mark>困難</mark>が伴う (learning involves many difficulties).
Both can mean 'getting in the way' or 'bothering'.
<mark>妨げ</mark> (samatage) is generally more formal and refers to significant obstructions to progress or action. <mark>邪魔</mark> (jama) is more informal and often implies something that is bothersome, inconvenient, or interrupts someone's activity in a more casual or annoying way. <mark>邪魔</mark> can also mean 'disturbance'.
工事の騒音が、私の仕事の<mark>妨げ</mark>になっている (the construction noise is hindering my work - more formal/serious) vs. 勉強中に友達が<mark>邪魔</mark>しに来た (my friend came to bother me while I was studying - informal/annoying).
They share the same root and meaning.
<mark>妨げ</mark> (samatage) is a noun, meaning 'a hindrance' or 'an obstacle'. <mark>妨げる</mark> (samatageru) is the verb form, meaning 'to hinder', 'to obstruct', or 'to impede'. You use <mark>妨げ</mark> to name the obstacle, and <mark>妨げる</mark> to describe the action of obstructing.
この法律は経済発展の<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。(This law is a hindrance to economic development.) vs. この法律は経済発展を<mark>妨げ</mark>ている。(This law is hindering economic development.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + になる (ni naru).
騒音は、勉強の<mark>妨げ</mark>になる。
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + となる (to naru).
時間不足は、プロジェクトの進捗の<mark>妨げ</mark>となる。
Noun + が (ga) + Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + になっている (ni natte iru).
健康問題が、彼のキャリアの<mark>妨げ</mark>になっている。
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + における (ni okeru) + Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + である (dearu).
古いインフラは、都市開発における<mark>妨げ</mark>である。
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + を (wo) + 妨げる (samatageru).
官僚主義は、イノベーションを<mark>妨げる</mark>。
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + にとって (ni totte) + Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + となり得る (to nariuru).
グローバル化は、地域文化の独自性の維持にとって<mark>妨げ</mark>となり得る。
Noun + の (no) + 妨げ (samatage) + を (wo) + 克服する (kokufuku suru) + こと (koto) + が (ga) + 重要だ (jūyō da).
成功のためには、あらゆる<mark>妨げ</mark>を克服することが重要だ。
Noun + は (wa) + Noun + を (wo) + 阻害し (sogai shi) + Noun + の (no) + Noun + を (wo) + 蝕む (mushibamu).
自己欺瞞は、個人の成長を<mark>阻害し</mark>、他者との関係を<mark>蝕む</mark>。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in B1-C2 level contexts.
-
Using <mark>妨げ</mark> as a verb.
→
Use the verb form 妨げる (samatageru).
Learners sometimes mistakenly use the noun <mark>妨げ</mark> where the verb is needed. For example, saying '進歩を<mark>妨げ</mark>です' is incorrect. The correct verb usage would be '進歩を<mark>妨げ</mark>ています' (is hindering progress) or '進歩を<mark>妨げ</mark>る' (to hinder progress).
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Incorrect particle usage.
→
Pay attention to particles like 'を' (wo) and 'に' (ni) or structures like '～となる' (to naru).
The way <mark>妨げ</mark> is connected to other words impacts meaning. For instance, '～の妨げとなる' (becomes a hindrance to) is common. Incorrect particles can lead to ungrammatical or confusing sentences.
-
Confusing <mark>妨げ</mark> with 障害 (shōgai).
→
Use <mark>妨げ</mark> for active obstructions and 障害 for general obstacles or disabilities.
<mark>妨げ</mark> implies something actively preventing progress, while 障害 is broader and can include physical disabilities. For example, 'lack of motivation' is a <mark>妨げ</mark>, but a 'broken leg' is a <mark>障害</mark>.
-
Overusing <mark>妨げ</mark> for minor issues.
→
Use simpler words like 問題 (mondai - problem) or 邪魔 (jama - nuisance) for less significant annoyances.
<mark>妨げ</mark> suggests a more serious impediment. Using it for minor inconveniences can sound overly dramatic. For instance, a fly buzzing around might be a '邪魔' but not necessarily a '妨げ' unless it seriously disrupts important work.
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Mispronouncing the word.
→
Pronounce it as sa-ma-ta-ge with relatively even stress.
While not overly complex, mispronouncing the syllables or placing incorrect stress can make the word sound unnatural. Practicing saying it aloud is important.
Tips
Distinguish Noun and Verb
Remember that 妨げ is a noun. If you need to express the action of hindering, use the verb form 妨げる (samatageru). For example, 'This is a hindrance' (これは妨げです) versus 'This hinders progress' (これは進歩を妨げます).
Visualize the Obstruction
Create a vivid mental image of something actively blocking progress. This could be a physical object, a person, or even an abstract concept acting as a barrier. Associating the word 妨げ with this visual will aid recall.
Practice the Rhythm
Say 妨げ (sa-ma-ta-ge) out loud several times, focusing on a natural, slightly even rhythm. Avoid stressing any single syllable too heavily, as this can sound unnatural in Japanese.
Use in Sentences
The most effective way to learn 妨げ is to actively use it. Try writing sentences about your own challenges or observing how it's used in Japanese media.
Common Patterns
Familiarize yourself with common patterns like '～の妨げとなる' (to become a hindrance) and '～を妨げる' (to hinder). These will help you construct natural-sounding sentences.
Explore Synonyms
Learning related words like 障害 (shōgai) and 障壁 (shōheki) will enrich your vocabulary and help you choose the most precise word for the situation.
Read and Listen Widely
Expose yourself to Japanese in various contexts – news, dramas, books. This will help you understand the nuances of 妨げ and how it's used naturally.
Identify Hindrances in Your Life
Actively look for things in your daily life that act as 妨げ to your goals. Naming them in Japanese can be a powerful learning tool.
Regular Review
Regularly revisit the definition, examples, and related words for 妨げ to solidify your understanding and usage.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a large, angry badger (さまたげ - samatage) blocking your path to a delicious meal. The badger is a clear hindrance, preventing you from reaching your food. The image of the badger as an obstacle helps remember the meaning.
Visual Association
Visualize a heavy, old-fashioned wooden door with a large bolt on it. This door is clearly a 妨げ to entering a room. The visual of a locked door represents something preventing access.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three things that are currently a 'samatage' in your life using the phrase '～の妨げになっている'.
Word Origin
The word 妨げ (samatage) is derived from the verb 妨げる (samatageru). The verb itself is believed to have originated from combining 'さ' (sa), a prefix often indicating negation or opposition, with 'たがえる' (tagaelu), meaning 'to mix' or 'to interfere'. Thus, the original sense was likely 'to mix in opposition' or 'to interfere negatively'.
Original meaning: To interfere negatively, to mix in opposition.
JaponicCultural Context
The word 妨げ itself is neutral and objective. However, the context in which it is used can carry sensitivity. For example, discussing personal 妨げ should be done with empathy, and discussing societal 妨げ requires careful consideration of the affected groups.
In English-speaking cultures, similar concepts are conveyed by words like 'hindrance,' 'obstacle,' 'impediment,' or 'roadblock.' The usage often aligns, focusing on factors that impede progress or action.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing obstacles to personal goals.
- 自己肯定感の低さが<mark>妨げ</mark>になっている。
- 時間管理のスキル不足が<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。
- 過去の経験が<mark>妨げ</mark>となることがある。
- 新しい挑戦への<mark>妨げ</mark>を取り除きたい。
Identifying societal or economic hindrances.
- インフラの老朽化が<mark>妨げ</mark>となっている。
- 規制緩和が経済発展の<mark>妨げ</mark>を解消する。
- 地域格差が社会統合の<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。
- グローバル競争が国内産業の<mark>妨げ</mark>になる。
Describing challenges in learning or research.
- 教材の不足が学習の<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。
- 研究資金の欠如がプロジェクトの<mark>妨げ</mark>となっている。
- 集中できない環境が勉強の<mark>妨げ</mark>になる。
- 情報へのアクセスが<mark>妨げ</mark>られている。
Talking about impediments in business or projects.
- 予算不足がプロジェクトの<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。
- コミュニケーション不足はチームワークの<mark>妨げ</mark>となる。
- 技術的な<mark>妨げ</mark>を克服する必要がある。
- 意思決定の遅れが<mark>妨げ</mark>になっている。
Referring to abstract or psychological barriers.
- 過度な心配が行動の<mark>妨げ</mark>となる。
- 固定観念が新しい考えの<mark>妨げ</mark>になる。
- 他者からの否定的な評価が<mark>妨げ</mark>となっている。
- 自己否定感が成長の<mark>妨げ</mark>だ。
Conversation Starters
"What is one major hindrance (妨げ) you've faced in your language learning journey?"
"Can you think of a time when a lack of resources became a significant hindrance (妨げ) to achieving a goal?"
"In your opinion, what is a common societal hindrance (妨げ) that prevents progress in your country?"
"How do you deal with internal hindrances (妨げ) like self-doubt or fear of failure?"
"What are some potential hindrances (妨げ) to technological advancement, and how can they be addressed?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a personal goal you have. What are the biggest hindrances (妨げ) that are currently preventing you from achieving it? How can you try to overcome them?
Think about a societal issue you care about. What are the major hindrances (妨げ) that are slowing down progress in addressing this issue? What steps could be taken to remove these hindrances?
Describe a situation where you felt something was a significant hindrance (妨げ) to your learning or development. What did you learn from that experience?
Consider the relationship between technology and society. What are some ways technology might act as a hindrance (妨げ) to human connection or well-being, even as it offers benefits?
Imagine you are advising someone who is facing a major hindrance (妨げ) in their life. What advice would you give them, using the concept of 'samatage'?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions妨げ (samatage) refers to something that actively obstructs or impedes progress, often implying a dynamic hindrance. 障害 (shōgai) is a broader term for an obstacle or barrier and can also refer to disabilities. While similar, 妨げ is often used for more abstract or process-related impediments, while 障害 can be more concrete or refer to a state. For example, 'lack of communication' might be a 妨げ to teamwork, while a 'physical disability' is a 障害.
No, 妨げ (samatage) is a noun. The verb form is 妨げる (samatageru), which means 'to hinder' or 'to obstruct'. You would say '進歩を妨げる' (shinpo wo samatageru - to hinder progress) instead of '進歩を妨げです' (shinpo wo samatage desu).
Almost anything that prevents or slows down progress can be a 妨げ. This includes physical obstacles, lack of resources, personal characteristics (like fear or laziness), systemic issues (like regulations or outdated systems), environmental factors, or even abstract concepts like doubt or prejudice.
妨げ (samatage) is for active hindrances. 障壁 (shōheki) implies a solid, often metaphorical 'wall'. 困難 (konnan) means 'difficulty' or 'hardship' and describes the challenging nature of a situation. Use 妨げ when something is actively getting in the way, 障壁 for a more formidable barrier, and 困難 to describe the overall difficulty.
妨げ (samatage) is generally considered neutral to formal. It's commonly used in news, academic writing, and serious discussions. For informal situations, words like '邪魔' (jama) might be used for minor annoyances.
Common phrases include '～の妨げとなる' (to become a hindrance to), '～の妨げになる' (to be a hindrance to), and '～の妨げになっている' (is becoming a hindrance to). The verb form '～を妨げる' (to hinder) is also very common.
Yes, absolutely. Internal factors like fear, self-doubt, lack of motivation, or past trauma can all be described as 妨げ to personal growth or achieving goals.
Lack of time or time constraints are often described as 妨げ. For example, '時間不足は、プロジェクトの進捗の妨げとなった' (Lack of time became a hindrance to the project's progress).
Opposites include words like 促進 (sokushin - promotion, facilitation), 支援 (shien - support, assistance), 助け (tasuke - help), and 推進 (suishin - propulsion, driving force), which all describe factors that help progress rather than hinder it.
The word itself is neutral, describing an objective condition. However, the context can imply negativity, especially when it refers to something that causes significant problems or suffering. The act of creating a 妨げ for others is generally viewed negatively.
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Summary
The Japanese word <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>妨げ</mark> (samatage) is a noun signifying an impediment or obstruction that actively prevents progress or action, applicable to personal, societal, and academic contexts.
- A noun meaning hindrance, obstacle, or obstruction.
- Used for things that prevent progress or action.
- Can be personal, societal, or academic.
- Often used with particles like 'を' or structures like 'となる'.
Distinguish Noun and Verb
Remember that 妨げ is a noun. If you need to express the action of hindering, use the verb form 妨げる (samatageru). For example, 'This is a hindrance' (これは妨げです) versus 'This hinders progress' (これは進歩を妨げます).
Context is Key
The best alternative to 妨げ depends heavily on the context. Consider if you mean a general obstacle (障害), a solid barrier (障壁), a difficulty (困難), or an annoyance (邪魔).
Visualize the Obstruction
Create a vivid mental image of something actively blocking progress. This could be a physical object, a person, or even an abstract concept acting as a barrier. Associating the word 妨げ with this visual will aid recall.
Practice the Rhythm
Say 妨げ (sa-ma-ta-ge) out loud several times, focusing on a natural, slightly even rhythm. Avoid stressing any single syllable too heavily, as this can sound unnatural in Japanese.
Example
騒音が勉強の妨げになる。
Related Content
More academic words
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.
