Translation guide
Describes a sharp, bitter, irritating smell or taste, often like smoke or chemicals. Also used figuratively for harsh remarks or tone.
Express that something has a strong, unpleasant, pungent smell or taste, like burning, chemicals, or strong spices.
A noun meaning 'irritating smell'. Commonly used for chemical, acrid odors.
Describe speech or writing that is sharp, bitter, and angry in tone.
An adjective meaning 'biting, acrimonious, harsh'. Commonly used for criticism or remarks.
彼の辛辣な言葉に傷ついた。
I was hurt by his acrid words.
The English word 'acrid' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Use different expressions depending on whether you mean smell/taste or tone. Avoid trying to translate 'acrid' as one word in all contexts.
この部屋は刺激臭がする。
This room has an acrid smell.
A phrase describing a sharp, pungent sensation in the nose or throat, like from wasabi or strong chemicals.
このソースはツンとする。
This sauce has an acrid kick.
Literally 'pierce the nose', used for strong, sharp smells that hit the nose.
煙の鼻をつく匂いが部屋に充満した。
The acrid smell of smoke filled the room.
An adjective meaning harsh, acrid, or pungent, often used for strong, unpleasant tastes or smells. Can be casual.
この煙の味、えぐいね。
This smoke tastes acrid, huh?
Literally 'spicy-smelling', can imply an acrid, irritating smell. Less common.
何か辛気臭い匂いがする。
There's some kind of acrid smell.
Means 'scathing, severe, biting'. Used for strong criticism.
痛烈な批判が相次いだ。
Acrid criticism came one after another.
Literally 'having thorns', meaning barbed, acrid remarks.
彼女の口調はとげのあるものだった。
Her tone was acrid.