Translation guide
The English word "barb" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: a sharp point on a hook or wire, a sharp or cutting remark, and a type of feather. Less common meanings like a breed of horse or a type of pigeon are omitted.
The backward-facing point on a fishhook, arrow, or barbed wire that prevents easy removal.
The most common word for a barb on a hook, arrow, or similar object. It refers to the backward-facing projection that catches.
A remark that is meant to hurt or criticize, often cleverly or indirectly.
Sarcasm or irony; a remark that says the opposite of what is meant, often to criticize. Very common for 'barb' in the sense of a cutting comment.
The thin, hair-like strands that branch off the main shaft of a feather.
The technical term for the barbs of a feather. Used in biology and ornithology.
この釣り針にはかえしが付いている。
This fishhook has a barb.
Literally 'reverse thorn', used for barbs on plants, wire, or tools. More technical or descriptive.
Barbed wire has sharp barbs.
Loanword from English, used in specific contexts like fishing or archery equipment, but not as common as かえし.
Use an arrowhead with a barb.
His barb stung me.
A snide or spiteful remark, often more directly unpleasant than 皮肉. Can be used for a barb that is openly nasty.
She's always making barbs.
Literally 'poison tongue', refers to sharp, caustic speech or a person who habitually makes such remarks. Often used for a series of barbs.
I'm used to his barbs.
A phrase meaning 'a stinging word', capturing the sensation of a barb. More descriptive and less common as a set phrase.
I was hurt by his barb.
The barbs are tangled and the feather won't go back to normal.
Literally 'feather branch', a more descriptive and accessible way to refer to barbs in everyday conversation.
The barbs of the feather are frayed.