Translation guide
The English word 'shrew' can refer to a small mammal or a pejorative term for a woman. This guide focuses on the animal meaning, which is the most common and useful for learners.
Referring to the small insectivorous mammal of the family Soricidae.
The standard Japanese word for shrew, literally 'pointed mouse'. Used in biology and everyday contexts.
I found a shrew in the garden.
Literally 'ground mouse', a less common term for shrew, sometimes used in specific contexts or older literature.
The taxonomic family Soricidae. Used in scientific contexts.
The shrew family includes many species.
An insulting term for a woman perceived as ill-tempered or nagging. This usage is dated and offensive in English; Japanese equivalents are provided for comprehension only.
Don't be such a shrew. · She was portrayed as a shrew in the play.
Literally 'demon wife', a slang term for a domineering or scary wife. Not a direct translation but captures a similar negative stereotype.
The English word 'shrew' as an insult is culturally specific and dated. Direct translations like トガリネズミ for a person will not be understood. Use the provided Japanese terms only if you need to comprehend or translate such language; in most situations, it's better to describe the behavior (e.g., 口うるさい 'nagging') rather than use a gendered slur.
Shrews eat small insects.
This is a gendered insult and should be avoided in polite conversation. Use only if you need to understand such references.
He is henpecked by his shrewish wife.
Literally 'restive horse', used for a headstrong or unruly woman. Can be playful or derogatory depending on context.
Archaic and potentially offensive. Modern usage is rare.
She is rumored to be a shrew.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'nagging woman'. More literal and less idiomatic than the above.
He ended up marrying a shrew.