Translation guide
How to express the idea of 'sticking to' in Japanese, covering physical adhesion, persistence, adherence to rules, and more.
Describing something physically sticking to a surface or object.
A common, casual verb for sticking or clinging to something. Often used for things like stickers, food, or small objects.
Gum stuck to my shoe.
To stick or adhere firmly, often used for flat things like posters or tape. Implies a stronger attachment.
The poster is stuck to the wall.
A technical term for adhesion, used in contexts like glue or tape. Sounds formal.
This tape sticks well.
Continuing with a task, plan, or belief despite difficulties.
To stick to something stubbornly, often with a negative nuance of being inflexible. Used for opinions, plans, or methods.
He stuck to his opinion.
To stick to one's principles or beliefs with determination, often positive. Implies seeing something through to the end.
To be particular about or stick to something, often about details or quality. Can be positive or negative depending on context.
He sticks to the details.
Literally 'to protect', but used for sticking to rules, promises, or schedules. Common in everyday speech.
Please stick to your promise.
Following rules, guidelines, or a predetermined plan without deviation.
To follow or obey rules, instructions, or a schedule. Neutral and widely used.
Please stick to the rules.
To do something exactly as planned or as instructed. Often used with nouns like 計画 (plan) or 指示 (instructions).
To strictly observe or adhere to rules, often used in formal or official contexts.
Remaining near someone or something, often for support or safety.
To stay by someone's side. Common in everyday conversation.
Please stick with me.
To stick to someone and not leave, often used for children or pets. Can sound clingy.
Remaining on the subject without digressing.
固執する (koshuu suru) often implies stubbornness and a negative nuance, while こだわる (kodawaru) can be positive when referring to attention to detail or quality. Use 固執する for inflexible adherence and こだわる for being particular about something.
He sticks to his own way and doesn't listen to others.
She makes dishes sticking to quality ingredients.
Avoid directly translating 'stick to' as くっつく in non-physical contexts. For example, 'stick to the plan' should not be 計画にくっつく (unnatural). Use 計画通りにする or 計画に従う instead.
She stuck to her beliefs.
Let's stick to the plan.
Please stick to the time strictly.
The child sticks to his mother and won't leave her side.
Let's stick to the agenda in the meeting.