Translation guide
The large, aggressive wasp known as a hornet. In Japanese, the most common word is スズメバチ, but there are also specific species names and related terms.
hornet
Referring to a hornet in general, especially the large, aggressive kind.
The standard word for hornet, especially the Asian giant hornet. Can be written as 雀蜂 or 胡蜂, but katakana is common.
I was stung by a hornet.
I found a hornet's nest.
Carpenter bee, often mistaken for a hornet due to its large size and loud buzzing. Not a true hornet, but sometimes referred to as one in casual English.
This is a bee, not a hornet. Use only when the distinction is not important or when referring to the large, black, fuzzy insect.
A carpenter bee was flying around.
Referring to a particular species of hornet, such as the Asian giant hornet.
Using 'hornet' in idioms or metaphors, such as 'stir up a hornet's nest'.
Literally 'like poking a beehive', used to describe a situation where one action causes a lot of trouble or uproar. Equivalent to 'stir up a hornet's nest'.
His remark stirred up a hornet's nest.
A more specific version using 'hornet's nest' instead of 'beehive', emphasizing the danger.
In English, 'hornet' specifically refers to large wasps of the genus Vespa. In Japanese, スズメバチ covers hornets, but クマバチ (carpenter bee) is often mistaken for one. Be careful with the distinction.
Japanese yellow hornet, a common species in Japan. Less aggressive than the giant hornet but still dangerous.
Yellow hornets are building a nest.
Bringing up that issue is like stirring up a hornet's nest.