Translation guide
The English word 'sticking' can refer to physical adhesion, the act of attaching something, or the state of being stuck. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings, from common verbs to specific onomatopoeia.
Describing when one object adheres or clings to another, often due to glue, moisture, or static.
A common, casual verb meaning 'to stick to' or 'to adhere'. Used for everyday situations.
Gum stuck to my shoe.
This sticker sticks well.
Literally 'to stick on', often used for flat things like posters or tape. Slightly more formal than くっつく.
The poster is stuck to the wall.
Technical term for adhesion, used in contexts like glue, tape, or physics.
This tape adheres strongly.
The action of making something stick to something else, like putting up a poster or applying a sticker.
The standard verb for sticking flat objects (paper, stamps, tape) onto surfaces.
Please stick a stamp on the envelope.
I stuck a poster on the wall.
A general verb for attaching or applying. Can be used for stickers, but less specific than 貼る.
Describing a state where something is jammed, caught, or cannot be removed easily.
Means 'to be caught' or 'to be stuck' on something, like a hook or a snag.
The door is stuck and won't open.
Used when something is stuck in a narrow space, like a pipe or a throat.
Can also mean 'to be stuck' in the sense of being inseparable or clinging.
When something extends outward from a surface or is noticeable.
Continuing to do something despite difficulty, or remaining loyal.
I stuck a sticker on my notebook.
My clothes got stuck on a nail.
The pipe is stuck (clogged).
A bone got stuck in my throat.
この引き出しがくっついて開かない。
This drawer is stuck and won't open.
シャツがズボンからはみ出ている。
Your shirt is sticking out of your pants.
最後までやり抜くつもりだ。
I intend to stick it out to the end.