Translation guide
The English word 'wick' refers to the cord in a candle, lamp, or oil stove that draws up fuel to be burned. This guide covers how to express this concept in Japanese, including related terms for trimming or replacing a wick.
The cord or string in a candle, oil lamp, or similar device that burns and draws up fuel.
The most common and general word for 'wick'. Used for candles, oil lamps, and stoves.
If the candle wick is too long, it will smoke.
ランプの芯を交換する必要がある。
I need to replace the lamp wick.
Specifically a wick for an oil lamp or lantern. Slightly more technical or traditional.
古いランプの灯心を切らなければならない。
I have to trim the old lamp wick.
The action of cutting or adjusting a wick to ensure proper burning.
Literally 'cut the wick'. The standard way to say 'trim the wick'.
ろうそくの芯を切ってください。
Please trim the candle wick.
Means 'adjust the wick' or 'trim the wick neatly'. A slightly more careful expression.
芯を整えてから火をつける。
I adjust the wick before lighting it.
The English word 'wick' is not related to the adjective 'wicked' (evil). In Japanese, 'wicked' is 邪悪な (じゃあくな) or 意地悪な (いじわるな).