ネタ
Meanings
material; information; news item
Refers to raw material for a story, article, or report; often used in journalism and content creation.
See also: 種
The reporter is looking for material for an article.
That story will make good material.
joke; comedy routine; made-up story
Used for jokes, comedic bits, or fabricated stories; common in entertainment contexts.
He always performs funny routines.
That's just a made-up story, so don't take it seriously.
Informal use for incriminating or supporting evidence; often in contexts like scandals or investigations.
The police got hold of evidence showing his involvement.
Refers to a magician's trick or the secret behind a trick; also used for hidden know-how.
The magician doesn't reveal his tricks.
sushi ingredients; topping
Specifically used in sushi restaurants for the fish or other toppings placed on rice.
See also: 種
This shop has fresh sushi toppings.
Internet slang for a meme or viral content.
That image became a popular meme online.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉をネタにするto turn something into a joke or comedic material
He always turns his own blunders into jokes to make people laugh.
- ネタが尽きるto run out of material or ideas
I've already run out of things to talk about.
- ネタを明かすto reveal a trick or secret
The magician revealed the trick at the end.
- ネタを探すto search for material or a story idea
The reporter walked around the city looking for a story.
- ネタを仕込むto prepare new comedic material or tricks in advance
The comedy duo prepared new material in advance.
- 〈相手〉のネタを握るto hold evidence or a secret over someone
The police are holding evidence of the culprit's weakness.