Translation guide
A tiny biting midge, common in North America. In Japanese, the closest equivalent is 'nukaka', but the concept is often unfamiliar. This guide explains how to refer to these insects in Japanese.
Referring to the tiny biting midge known as a no-see-um.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'tiny blood-sucking insect'. Useful when the listener doesn't know 'nukaka'.
キャンプ場に小さな吸血虫がたくさんいた。
There were a lot of tiny blood-sucking insects at the campsite.
Since 'nukaka' is not universally known, describing the insect as a tiny, biting fly that's hard to see is often the best approach.
すごく小さいハエみたいな虫で、刺されるとかゆいんです。
It's a really tiny fly-like bug, and when it bites you, it itches.
Talking about the bites or the resulting itch.
The standard way to say 'bitten by no-see-ums'. Use even if the listener doesn't know the insect; context will clarify.
ヌカカに刺されて、すごくかゆい。
I got bitten by no-see-ums and it's really itchy.
General term for insect bites. Can be used if the specific insect is unknown or unimportant.
虫刺されがひどくて、眠れなかった。
The insect bites were so bad I couldn't sleep.
No-see-ums are not as common in Japan as in some parts of North America. The Japanese word 'nukaka' exists but is not widely recognized. When speaking to Japanese people, be prepared to explain what they are.