Translation guide
How to express the idea of drilling into something, both literally (making a hole with a tool) and figuratively (examining deeply, forcing information into someone, or emphasizing a point).
To physically bore a hole into a material using a drill or similar tool.
General phrase meaning 'to make a hole'. Often used with a drill, but not limited to it. Natural and common.
I drilled a hole in the wall.
Explicitly states using a drill. Good when the tool is important.
We need to drill a hole into the metal plate.
Technical term for 'perforate' or 'drill a hole'. Used in engineering or formal contexts.
This machine can drill into steel.
To investigate or scrutinize something in detail, often data or a topic.
Literally 'dig down deep'. Common metaphor for delving into a subject. Natural in business and casual contexts.
Let's drill into that issue a bit more.
Means 'to investigate in detail'. More straightforward and less metaphorical.
We need to drill into the data.
Implies a thorough, sometimes aggressive investigation. 'Tsukkomu' means to thrust into.
To repeatedly teach or instill something until it is memorized or understood, often through repetition.
Literally 'to hammer into'. Strongly conveys drilling knowledge or skills into someone through repetition. Can be harsh.
The teacher drilled grammar into the students.
Means 'to teach repeatedly until learned'. Less forceful than 叩き込む.
To teach thoroughly. Focuses on completeness rather than repetition.
To stress or make someone understand a point strongly, often in an argument or discussion.
The English 'drill into' is often metaphorical. Direct translations like ドリルで入る are nonsensical. Use the appropriate Japanese metaphor or phrase for the intended meaning.
drill into the data (literal, unnatural)
He drilled into the matter.
We drill safety rules into the employees.
It's important to drill the basics into them.
To tell someone earnestly, to impress upon. Often used when trying to make someone understand or accept something.
My mother drilled the dangers into me.
彼に時間厳守を念を押した。
I drilled into him the importance of being on time.