Translation guide
The English verb 'corrode' refers to the gradual destruction of materials (especially metals) by chemical action, or metaphorically to the gradual weakening or destruction of something non-physical. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both literal and figurative uses.
Iron corrodes due to acid.
This metal corrodes easily in humidity.
Specifically means 'to rust'. Use for iron or steel when the corrosion is rust. Very common in daily life.
The bicycle chain has rusted.
Literally 'erode', can be used for gradual wearing away by chemical or natural forces, but more commonly for physical erosion by water/wind. For chemical corrosion, 腐食する is preferred.
Acid rain corrodes stone materials.
Means 'to rot' or 'decay', usually for organic matter. Can sometimes be used loosely for metal that has severely deteriorated, but not standard for corrosion.
Not a direct equivalent for 'corrode'; use only when the metal is so degraded it seems to be rotting.
The old pipe corroded and got a hole.
To express that something abstract is being slowly damaged or undermined.
Literally 'to eat into' or 'gnaw', used figuratively for something that gradually erodes or undermines health, mind, trust, etc. Very common in figurative contexts.
Distrust gradually corroded their relationship.
Can be used figuratively, similar to English 'corrode' for abstract things, but less common than 蝕む. Often in formal or written contexts.
Also used figuratively for gradual erosion, but more often for physical erosion. Can be used for abstract things like culture or values being eroded.
腐食する is the general term for chemical corrosion of any material. 錆びる specifically means 'to rust' and only applies to iron/steel. Use 錆びる for everyday rusting, and 腐食する for technical or non-iron contexts.
While 腐食する can be used figuratively, it may sound overly technical or translated. 蝕む is often more natural for gradual undermining of abstract concepts like trust, health, or relationships.
ストレスが心身を蝕む。
Stress corrodes the mind and body.
Corruption is corroding trust in politics.
Foreign culture is corroding tradition.