Translation guide
The English word 'blunt' has several distinct meanings: not sharp (literal and figurative), direct in speech, and a type of cigar. This guide covers the most common uses for learners.
Describing an object that is not sharp, such as a knife, pencil, or tool.
Most common adjective for 'blunt' or 'dull' (edge/point). Can also mean slow or obtuse figuratively.
This knife has a blunt blade.
Phrase meaning 'cutting ability is poor', a natural way to say a blade is blunt.
This kitchen knife is blunt.
Literally 'the tip is round', used for pencils, sticks, etc. that are not pointed.
The pencil tip has become blunt.
Colloquial/slang term for a blunt sword or blade; can also mean cowardly or incompetent.
You can't cut with such a blunt sword.
Describing a person or statement that is honest and direct, often without concern for others' feelings.
Means 'frank' or 'candid'. Often positive, but can imply bluntness depending on context.
May I give you my blunt opinion?
Describes a blunt, curt, or brusque manner of speaking. Often negative nuance.
He has a blunt way of speaking.
Literally 'single sword straight in'; means getting straight to the point without preamble. Often used positively.
Adverb meaning 'bluntly' or 'without reserve', often with a negative connotation of being tactless.
She bluntly points out people's faults.
Means 'blatant' or 'undisguised'; can be used for blunt statements that are shockingly direct.
He was hurt by the blunt criticism.
Describing an object used as a weapon that is not sharp, e.g., a blunt instrument.
Noun meaning 'blunt weapon' or 'blunt instrument', used in forensic or crime contexts.
The victim was struck with a blunt object.
A cigar hollowed out and filled with marijuana.
Loanword from English 'blunt', used in Japanese subculture contexts.
They were passing around a blunt.
Describing a dulled sense, slow understanding, or lack of sharpness in non-physical contexts.
Same word as for physical bluntness; can mean slow-witted, insensitive, or dulled senses.
He is slow on the uptake. (lit. his intuition is blunt)
Adjectival noun meaning 'insensitive', 'thick-skinned', or 'obtuse'. Often used for emotional insensitivity.
He is blunt to others' feelings.
率直 (frank) is often positive or neutral, implying honesty. ぶっきらぼう (brusque) is negative, suggesting rudeness. ずけずけ (tactlessly blunt) is strongly negative, implying lack of consideration.
Saying 彼は鈍い (kare wa nibui) to mean 'he is blunt' in speech will be misunderstood as 'he is slow/dull'. Use the specific terms for directness instead.
To be blunt, that plan is a failure.
The cold made my fingers feel blunt (numb).