Translation guide
The English word "harsh" covers several distinct meanings: severe/cruel, rough/unpleasant to the senses, and overly critical. Japanese uses different words for each nuance.
Describing treatment, punishment, rules, or conditions that are very difficult, strict, or cruel.
The most common and versatile word for 'harsh' in the sense of strict, severe, or tough. Used for rules, discipline, criticism, conditions, etc.
His punishment is too harsh.
This winter has harsh cold.
Emphasizes extreme severity, often with a nuance of cruelty or unbearableness. Used for conditions, labor, or treatment.
They protested against the harsh working conditions.
Specifically for harsh criticism or remarks that are sharp and cutting.
I was hurt by his harsh criticism.
Describing something that feels rough, sounds grating, looks glaring, or tastes sharp/unpleasant.
Specifically for harsh or grating sounds.
The alarm makes a harsh sound.
For rough texture or coarse surfaces. Can also describe rough manner or crude quality.
Describes harsh, glaring light that is dazzling or unpleasant.
The harsh sunlight hurts my eyes.
For harsh chemicals, strong tastes, or anything that is irritating to the body.
Describing a person's manner, words, or tone that is unkind, severe, or lacking gentleness.
Means severely critical or scathing, often used for feedback or comments.
I received a harsh evaluation from my boss.
Literally 'thorny', used for remarks that are barbed or cutting.
I got angry at her harsh way of speaking.
Means merciless or relentless; can describe harsh criticism or treatment.
While 厳しい (kibishii) is the most common translation for 'harsh', it is not used for rough textures. Use 粗い (arai) for rough surfaces, or ざらざらした (zarazara shita) for gritty textures.
厳しい (kibishii) is the general word for strict or severe. 過酷な (kakoku na) implies extreme, almost unbearable harshness, often used for conditions like weather or labor.
This cloth has a harsh texture.
This detergent is harsh, so please wear gloves.
He attacked his opponent with harsh words.