Translation guide
How to express 'bluntly' in Japanese, covering direct speech, frankness, and abruptness.
Expressing an opinion or fact in a straightforward, honest way without softening.
The most common and neutral way to say 'bluntly' when giving an honest opinion. Suitable for both positive and negative contexts.
率直に言うと、その計画はうまくいかないと思う。
To be blunt, I don't think that plan will work.
Saying something in a short, sharp, or tactless manner that may offend.
Describes a curt, brusque manner of speaking. Often used for someone who is not intentionally rude but comes across as blunt.
彼はぶっきらぼうに「いらない」と言った。
He said bluntly, 'I don't need it.'
Describing an action or object that is not sharp, or a statement lacking subtlety.
Literally 'dully', used for physical bluntness (e.g., a blunt knife) or metaphorically for slow-wittedness. Not typically used for speech unless emphasizing lack of sharpness.
そのナイフは鈍くて切れない。
The knife is blunt and won't cut.
率直に (sotchoku ni) is positive or neutral frankness, while ぶっきらぼうに (bukkirabou ni) implies a rough, curt manner that may seem rude. Choose based on whether the bluntness is well-intentioned or not.
率直な意見をありがとう。
Thank you for your frank opinion.
彼のぶっきらぼうな返事に驚いた。
I was surprised by his blunt reply.
Directly translating 'bluntly' as 鈍く (nibuku) for speech is unnatural. Use adverbs like 率直に or ぶっきらぼうに instead.
Conveys hitting the mark directly, often used when someone asks a direct question or gives a precise answer. Slightly more casual.
ずばり聞くけど、給料はいくら？
I'll ask you bluntly, how much is your salary?
Means openly and without reserve, sometimes implying a lack of tact. Can sound negative if the bluntness is inappropriate.
彼はあけすけに文句を言った。
He complained bluntly.
Literally 'like a single sword straight in', meaning to get straight to the point without preamble. Can be perceived as blunt but is often used in business or serious discussions.
単刀直入に申し上げますと、お断りします。
To be blunt, I must decline.
Implies speaking without restraint, often rudely or intrusively. Has a negative connotation.
彼女は人の秘密をずけずけと聞く。
She bluntly asks about people's secrets.