牽制する

• Reading: けんせいする
• Romaji: kenseisuru
• Kanji breakdown: 牽 (ken) — to pull, lead; 制 (sei) — to control, restrict
• Pronunciation: /ke.ɴ.se.i.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To check; to restrain; to hold back; to deter; to keep in check. Exerting pressure to prevent another party from acting freely.

A Group 3 (suru-verb) compound. Originally a military term for suppressing or diverting an enemy's movement to gain tactical advantage. Now used broadly in politics, diplomacy, sports, and business. In baseball, 牽制球 (kenseikyu) is a pickoff throw designed to keep a baserunner close. The verb captures the idea of constraining an opponent's options through strategic pressure.

Examples

1. 大国同士が互いを牽制しながら外交交渉を続けている。 The major powers continue diplomatic negotiations while keeping each other in check.
2. 彼の発言は対立候補を牽制することを意図していた。 His remarks were intended to deter the opposing candidate.
3. 投手は走者を牽制するために何度も塁に投げた。 The pitcher threw to the base several times to hold the runner in check.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, diplomacy, sports, strategy

Tone: formal

Origin & History

牽 means to pull or lead (as with a rope), and 制 means to control or restrict. Together they form the concept of restraining something by actively pulling it back before it can advance.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal