Translation guide
The English verb "engrave" refers to cutting or carving a design or text into a hard surface, or metaphorically fixing something deeply in memory. This guide covers both physical engraving and the figurative sense.
To cut or carve letters, patterns, or designs into a hard material like metal, stone, or wood.
The most common and general verb for carving or engraving. Can be used for wood, stone, metal, etc. Often written in hiragana in casual contexts.
指輪に名前を彫ってもらった。
I had my name engraved on the ring.
He carved a pattern into the wooden board.
Literally means 'to cut finely' or 'to carve'. Often implies engraving with precision, such as letters or detailed designs. Can also mean 'to chop' or 'to mince' in cooking contexts.
The name of the deceased is engraved on the stone monument.
He engraved small letters onto the metal plate.
A more formal or technical term for engraving or sculpting. Often used for artistic carving or sculpture. Can refer to both engraving and three-dimensional carving.
This sculptor carved an angel statue into the marble.
To fix something firmly and indelibly in one's mind, memory, or emotions.
A common figurative expression meaning 'to engrave on one's heart'. Used for deeply emotional or unforgettable experiences.
That scene is deeply engraved in my heart.
I will live with my teacher's words engraved in my heart.
Means 'to engrave in memory'. Used for memorable events or information you want to remember forever.
Literally 'to be burned into the back of one's mind'. A vivid expression for something unforgettable, often with a negative or shocking nuance.
Both can mean 'engrave', but 彫る (horu) is more general for carving or sculpting, while 刻む (kizamu) emphasizes fine, detailed cutting or engraving of letters/patterns. 刻む is also used in figurative expressions like 心に刻む (engrave in one's heart).
Avoid directly translating 'engrave' as 彫る in figurative contexts. Use set phrases like 心に刻む or 記憶に刻む. Saying 心を彫る would sound unnatural.
The events of that day are engraved in my memory.
The image of the accident is burned into my mind and won't leave.