Translation guide
The English word "hound" can be a noun (a type of dog) or a verb (to persistently pursue or harass). This guide covers both uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
Referring to a hound as a breed of dog, especially one used for hunting.
To chase or follow someone persistently, often in a way that is annoying or threatening.
To subject someone to constant pressure, criticism, or demands, causing distress.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly corresponds to 'hound'. Using 猟犬する is incorrect. Choose a verb based on the nuance: chasing (追い回す), pestering (しつこくせがむ), or pressuring (責め立てる).
追い回す emphasizes active chasing, often with movement. 付きまとう emphasizes sticking close and being a nuisance, not necessarily involving a chase. For reporters or paparazzi, 追い回す is better; for a stalker who is always nearby, 付きまとう is more natural.
General term for a hunting dog, including hounds. This is the most common and neutral way to refer to a hound.
彼は猟犬を飼っている。
He keeps a hound.
Loanword from English, used in breed names or when specifically referring to hound-type dogs in a Western context.
バセットハウンドは耳が長い。
Basset hounds have long ears.
Generic word for 'dog'. Only use if the specific type is clear from context, as it does not convey 'hound' specifically.
あの犬は猟犬ですか？
Is that dog a hound?
Literally 'chase around'. Implies persistent, often unwanted pursuit. Suitable for both physical chasing and metaphorical hounding.
記者が有名人を追い回している。
Reporters are hounding the celebrity.
Means 'to persistently chase'. The adverb しつこく adds the nuance of being annoying or tenacious.
借金取りが彼をしつこく追っている。
Debt collectors are hounding him.
Means 'to follow around' or 'to shadow'. Often used for stalkers or persistent suitors, but can apply to any annoying pursuit.
彼女はストーカーに付きまとわれている。
She is being hounded by a stalker.
Means 'to pester' or 'to nag'. Used when hounding someone for a favor, answer, or action.
子供がおもちゃを買ってとしつこくせがんだ。
The child hounded me to buy a toy.
Means 'to assail with questions/criticism' or 'to badger'. Strongly conveys relentless pressure.
上司が部下を責め立てた。
The boss hounded his subordinate.
Means 'to corner' or 'to drive into a corner'. Implies hounding someone until they have no escape.
彼は質問で追い詰められた。
He was hounded with questions.
Means 'to harass'. A broader term that can cover hounding as a form of harassment.
彼は隣人に嫌がらせをされている。
He is being hounded by his neighbor.