Translation guide
The English word 'shank' has several distinct meanings: a part of the leg (especially in animals or as a cut of meat), a long narrow part of a tool or object, and as slang for a homemade knife or the act of stabbing. This guide covers the most common and useful Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to the part of the leg between the knee and ankle, especially in animals or as a cut of meat (e.g., beef shank, lamb shank).
General term for the shin or lower leg in humans and animals. Also used for the cut of meat.
I stewed beef shank.
He hit his shin playing soccer.
Kanji form of すね, used in written contexts or compound words.
I broke my shin bone.
Loanword from English, used in culinary contexts for specific dishes like lamb shank.
braised lamb shank
The long, narrow part of a tool, key, or other object connecting the handle to the working end.
General term for shaft, axis, or shank of a tool. Commonly used for drill bits, screwdrivers, etc.
The drill shank broke.
The shank of this key is long.
Refers to the handle or haft of a tool, but can sometimes include the shank in context. More common for knives or swords.
Technical loanword used in engineering or machining contexts.
Slang for a homemade knife or the act of stabbing someone, especially in prison contexts.
Verb meaning 'to stab'. Used for the action of shanking.
The inmate shanked another prisoner.
General term for edged weapon or blade. Can refer to a shank in context.
Loanword used in subculture or media about prisons, but not widely understood.
In Japanese, there is no exact equivalent for the prison slang 'shank'. Using すね (shin) would be confusing. Instead, describe the action (刺す) or use a general term like 刃物. The loanword シャンク is only understood in very specific contexts.
The knife's handle (and shank) is sturdy.
Please measure the shank diameter.
He had a shank.
A shank was found in the prison.