Translation guide
The English word "bomb" can refer to an explosive device, a failure, or a great success, among other meanings. Japanese uses different words and expressions depending on the context.
A container filled with explosive material, designed to explode and cause damage.
The standard word for a bomb as a physical explosive device.
The terrorists planted a bomb.
The bomb exploded.
A broader term for explosive substances or devices, often used in legal or technical contexts.
A suspicious explosive device was found.
A loanword from English, used in compound words or specific contexts like 'car bomb' (カーボム) or in video games.
A car bomb exploded.
Something that is a complete failure, especially in entertainment or business.
A major failure or blunder. Can be used for movies, projects, etc.
That movie was a bomb.
Literally 'explosive death', used colloquially to mean a spectacular failure, especially in entertainment or sales.
A failed work or product, often used for artistic or creative works.
This novel is a bomb.
Something that is extremely successful or popular.
A very attractive person, often used as slang.
To perform very poorly or fail completely.
To drop bombs on a target or to bomb a place.
To go or move very fast.
To perform excellently, especially in a test or competition.
In English slang, 'bomb' can mean both a huge success and a huge failure. Japanese does not have a single word with this dual meaning. Always clarify whether you mean success (大ヒット, 大成功) or failure (大失敗, 爆死).
爆死 is slang and often used for entertainment/media flops. 大失敗 is more general and can be used in formal contexts.
He bombed the audition.
The new game bombed.
The party was a bomb (a great success).
That skit was a bomb (killed it).
彼はイケメンだね。
He's a bomb, isn't he?
あの子は別嬪やな。
That girl is a bomb.
The play bombed.