塞ぐ

ふさぐ
JLPT:N2
Frequency:

1To stop up or close an opening; to block or plug; to cover (eyes, ears, etc.).

Group 1 VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

パイプの穴を布でしっかり塞いだ。

I firmly plugged the hole in the pipe with cloth.

彼女は悲しくて目を塞いだ。

She covered her eyes because she was sad.

風で戸がすき間から入ってくるので、隙間を塞いだ。

Because wind was coming through the gap in the door, I sealed the gap.

2To stand in the way; to obstruct or block passage or progress.

Group 1 VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

工事のトラックが歩道を塞いでいる。

A construction truck is blocking the sidewalk.

大きな荷物が玄関を塞いで出られない。

A large package is blocking the entrance, so I can't get out.

彼の意見が議論の進行を塞いでしまった。

His comment blocked the progress of the discussion.

3To occupy or fill up (space, time, seats); to take up (a place or time).

Group 1 VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

会議室は午後は予約で塞がっている。

The conference room is fully booked in the afternoon.

彼はいつも席を塞いでいて席を譲ってくれない。

He always takes up a seat and doesn't give it up.

休日は予定が次々に塞がってしまった。

My plans for the holiday filled up one after another.

4To perform one's role or fulfill a duty (an archaic or formal usage).

Group 1 VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

村の行事では長老が長年その役を塞いできた。

At village events, the elder has for many years carried out that role.

5To feel depressed or gloomy; to be in low spirits; to mope.

Group 1 VerbIntransitive Verb

Examples

最近ずっと塞いでいるようで、話しかけても答えない。

Lately they've seemed down and don't respond even when you talk to them.

失恋してから彼は塞ぎがちになった。

Since the breakup he's tended to be gloomy.