Translation guide
A sharp, hurtful comment intended to wound someone's feelings. Japanese has many nuanced expressions depending on the tone and context.
To express a remark that is intentionally cruel or wounding.
A general term for harsh, biting words. '辛辣' means 'bitter' or 'caustic'.
彼の辛辣な言葉に傷ついた。
I was hurt by his cutting remarks.
A remark that is cutting through sarcasm or irony, often in a more casual or humorous context.
辛辣 (shinratsu) is a formal, written-style word for harsh criticism. 毒舌 (dokuzetsu) often implies a witty, sharp-tongued personality. 嫌味 (iyami) is the most common for everyday sarcastic or spiteful remarks.
彼の辛辣な批評は的を射ていた。
His cutting criticism was on point.
A single, sharply critical remark. '痛烈' means 'severe' or 'scathing'.
彼女の痛烈な一言で会議の雰囲気が変わった。
Her cutting remark changed the atmosphere of the meeting.
Literally 'poison tongue'. Refers to a sharp, often witty but hurtful way of speaking. Can be used for a person's trait.
彼は毒舌で有名だ。
He is famous for his cutting remarks.
Literally 'words with thorns'. Implies a remark that is barbed or stinging.
彼女はいつもとげのある言葉を言う。
She always makes cutting remarks.
A sarcastic or spiteful remark. Very common in everyday speech.
彼の嫌味にはもう慣れた。
I've gotten used to his cutting remarks.
A sarcastic or ironic comment. '皮肉' means 'sarcasm' or 'irony'.
彼はいつも皮肉なコメントを言う。
He always makes cutting remarks.
That comedian is popular for his cutting remarks.
また嫌味を言われた。
I got another cutting remark.