Translation guide
The main force or impact of something unpleasant, often used in phrases like 'bear the brunt' or 'take the brunt.'
To receive the main force or worst part of something negative.
To absorb the main impact of something like a storm, explosion, or collision.
Standard way to say 'suffer the greatest damage,' often used for natural disasters.
沿岸部が津波の最も大きな被害を受けた。
The coastal area took the brunt of the tsunami.
There is no single Japanese word for 'brunt.' Translating it directly will sound unnatural. Use the phrases provided based on context.
Literally 'stand in the line of fire,' this is the most common way to express bearing the brunt of criticism or attack.
彼は批判の矢面に立った。
He bore the brunt of the criticism.
Passive form, meaning 'to be made to bear the brunt.'
彼女はいつも矢面に立たされる。
She always ends up bearing the brunt.
Means 'to become the primary target,' used when someone receives the brunt of attacks or blame.
新入社員が一番の標的になった。
The new employee bore the brunt of it.
Literally 'receive a direct hit,' used for physical impacts or metaphorical blows.
その地域は台風の直撃を受けた。
The area bore the brunt of the typhoon.
Colloquial, literally 'eat a direct hit,' used for physical impacts.
家が爆風の直撃を食らった。
The house took the brunt of the blast.
Means 'receive head-on,' emphasizing facing the full force.
彼はボールの衝撃を正面から受けた。
He took the brunt of the ball's impact.