Translation guide
A chisel is a tool with a sharp metal edge used for cutting or shaping wood, stone, or metal. This guide covers how to talk about the tool itself and related actions in Japanese.
Referring to the physical chisel tool.
General term for a chisel, especially in woodworking. Can refer to various types.
This chisel cuts very well.
Specifically a chisel used for carving or engraving, often smaller and used in arts and crafts.
彫刻刀で木を彫る。
Carve wood with a chisel.
A chisel for metal or stone, often struck with a hammer. Typically written in katakana.
石工がタガネで石を割った。
The stonemason split the stone with a chisel.
Describing the act of using a chisel.
Literally 'carve with a chisel'. The most natural way to say 'to chisel' in the sense of carving.
彼は鑿で木を彫っている。
He is chiseling the wood.
Means 'to shave or pare with a chisel', focusing on removing thin layers.
鑿で表面を削る。
Chisel the surface.
Specifically using a metal/stone chisel (タガネ) for engraving or cutting hard materials.
墓石にタガネで名前を彫る。
Chisel a name into the gravestone.
Using 'chisel' in the slang sense of cheating someone out of money.
General verb for 'to deceive' or 'to cheat'. Not specific to chiseling, but covers the meaning.
彼は私を騙して金を取った。
He chiseled me out of my money.
Means 'to swindle' or 'to extort', often implying taking money by trickery.
あのセールスマンに金を巻き上げられた。
That salesman chiseled me out of my money.