hinder

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The on reading is しょう, and the kun reading is さわる. It has 14 strokes. It appears in words for obstacles to progress and machine malfunctions.
• Basic usage: 障害 is read しょうがい and 故障 is read こしょう.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 障害 / 故障
  • 障害 means barrier or obstacle and is read しょうがい. It refers to a barrier or obstacle that hinders access or a plan.
  • 入口の段差は車椅子を使う人にとって障害になります。 means “The step at the entrance is a barrier for wheelchair users.”
  • 故障 means breakdown or malfunction and is read こしょう. It refers to a breakdown or malfunction of a machine or car.
  • 洗濯機が故障して水がたまらなくなった。 means “The washing machine broke down and stopped filling with water.”