Translation guide
The English word 'nasty' covers a range of negative qualities: unpleasant, mean, dirty, serious, or difficult. Japanese uses different words depending on what is being described. This guide organizes the most common meanings for learners.
Describing something that is physically or sensorily unpleasant, gross, or repulsive.
A general adjective for something unpleasant or disagreeable. Can be used for experiences, feelings, weather, etc.
Literally 'feels bad', used for things that are gross, creepy, or make you feel sick.
Specifically for bad-tasting food or drink.
Formal/literary word for unpleasant or disagreeable.
A nasty odor filled the room.
Describing a person or their actions as intentionally hurtful or malicious.
Describes someone who is mean-spirited or deliberately unkind.
Describing something physically dirty or gross.
Describing something that is bad in a serious or intense way.
Used for severe injuries, weather, mistakes, etc.
Describing something sexually explicit or crude.
Means 'vulgar' or 'crude', used for jokes, language, or behavior.
The English word 'nasty' is very broad. Do not assume one Japanese word fits all contexts. Always consider what kind of 'nastiness' you mean: unpleasant, mean, dirty, severe, or vulgar.
嫌な (iya na) is for subjective unpleasantness (a nasty smell, a nasty feeling). ひどい (hidoi) is for objective severity or cruelty (a nasty injury, a nasty person). Overlap exists, but ひどい is stronger and more judgmental.
That bug is nasty!
It has a nasty taste.
This soup is nasty.
He said a nasty thing.
What a nasty person.
Means 'terrible' or 'awful', often used for cruel behavior or harsh words.
Don't say nasty things.
That teacher is nasty to the students.
Can also be used for mean behavior, though it's broader.
To have a nasty attitude.
General word for dirty, messy, or unclean.
This room is nasty (dirty).
Don't touch with your nasty hands.
More formal, emphasizes lack of hygiene.
Grew up in a nasty environment.
I got a nasty injury.
It's a nasty traffic jam.
Means 'serious' or 'grave', suitable for problems or situations.
Facing a nasty problem.
Stop making nasty jokes.
Legal/formal term for obscene or indecent.
Don't send nasty pictures.
Slang for 'erotic' or 'dirty', often used casually.
Let's stop the nasty talk.