Translation guide
The English word 'duff' has several distinct meanings: a type of pudding, something worthless or of poor quality, and (slang) buttocks. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a boiled or steamed pudding, often containing dried fruit.
Describing something as useless, broken, or of low quality.
Common word meaning 'no good', 'useless', or 'hopeless'. Covers many uses of 'duff' in this sense.
Informal reference to the buttocks.
Standard polite word for buttocks. Safe to use in most situations.
The meaning of 'duff' changes drastically depending on context. Using ダフ for buttocks or お尻 for pudding will cause confusion. Always consider the situation before choosing a Japanese equivalent.
Traditional British duff is a steamed pudding.
Generic term for steamed pudding. Can be used to describe duff when the specific name isn't known.
This steamed pudding has dried fruit in it.
This watch is duff.
Means 'defective product' or 'faulty item'. More formal and specific to manufactured goods.
It was a duff one, so I got it replaced.
Literally 'useless person/thing'. Stronger and more insulting; use with care.
That machine is completely duff.
彼はお尻を蹴られた。
He got kicked in the duff.
Slang/vulgar term for buttocks, similar in tone to 'ass'. Use only in very casual settings.
I fell and landed on my duff.
Anatomical term for buttocks. Very formal/medical.
Exercises to strengthen the duff muscles.