Translation guide
The English word "tack" has several distinct meanings, from a small nail to a sailing maneuver to a course of action. This guide covers the most common uses for learners.
A short, sharp nail with a flat head, used for fastening paper or light materials.
Specifically a thumbtack or drawing pin. This is the most common word for a tack used on bulletin boards.
I tacked the poster to the wall with a thumbtack.
A general word for a rivet, stud, or tack. Can refer to decorative tacks on furniture or upholstery.
The chair is studded with brass tacks.
A pushpin, similar to a thumbtack but with a longer, easier-to-grip handle. Common in offices.
I pinned the document to the bulletin board with a pushpin.
The act of changing a sailing vessel's direction by turning the bow through the wind.
A method or way of dealing with a situation; a line of policy.
Policy, course, or line of action. Used in business and everyday contexts.
We decided to take a new tack.
Way of doing something; method. More casual than 方針.
Approach or method, borrowed from English. Common in business and creative fields.
A temporary stitch used to hold fabric in place before final sewing; basting.
Equipment used in horseback riding, such as saddles and bridles. Often in the phrase "tack room".
A rope or line on a ship, especially one controlling the lower corner of a sail.
Same as the sailing maneuver; context distinguishes the meaning. Refers to the rope or the corner of the sail.
Adjust the sail by pulling the tack.
While 画鋲 is correct for a thumbtack, using 釘 (くぎ, nail) would be wrong because it implies a larger nail for wood. Always specify the type of tack.
方針 implies a more formal policy or strategic direction, while やり方 is a casual 'way of doing things'. Use 方針 in business settings and やり方 in everyday conversation.
I need to buy some tacks for the bulletin board.
Let's try a different tack in the negotiation.
別のやり方で試してみよう。
Let's try a different tack.
Take a new tack on the problem.
仮縫いで裾を留める。
Tack the hem with a basting stitch.