Translation guide
The English verb 'badger' means to repeatedly ask or pressure someone in an annoying way. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various verbs and phrases that convey persistent pestering, nagging, or bothering.
彼は私にしつこくお金を貸してと頼んだ。
He badgered me for money.
Expressing the act of repeatedly asking, bothering, or pressuring someone until they give in or become annoyed.
A common and natural way to say 'badger' by combining 'persistent' (しつこい) with 'ask/request' (頼む). It implies repeatedly asking for something.
彼は私にしつこく頼んで、ついにOKをもらった。
He badgered me until I finally said yes.
There is no direct single-word Japanese equivalent for the English verb 'badger'. Using the animal name アナグマ as a verb would be nonsensical. Always use a phrase that conveys persistent pestering.
しつこく頼む is more general and can be used in various situations, including formal ones. せがむ is softer and often used for children or when there is an emotional appeal. うるさく言う implies nagging with a tone of annoyance, often from a position of authority.
Often used when children pester parents for something, or when someone begs insistently. Carries a nuance of pleading or coaxing.
子供がおもちゃを買ってとせがんだ。
The child badgered me to buy a toy.
Literally 'to say noisily/annoyingly', used for nagging or repeatedly telling someone to do something. Often used by parents or superiors.
母は私に部屋を片付けるよううるさく言う。
My mother badgers me to clean my room.
Means 'to follow around' or 'to haunt', implying persistent bothering by being physically present. Stronger nuance of stalking or clinging.
記者が有名人に付きまとって質問した。
Reporters badgered the celebrity with questions.
Primarily means 'to persuade' or 'to woo', but can imply persistent coaxing or badgering in romantic or sales contexts. Can sound old-fashioned or dramatic.
彼は彼女を口説いてデートに誘った。
He badgered her into going on a date.