Translation guide
How to express that something is sticky in Japanese, covering physical stickiness, adhesive properties, and figurative uses.
Describing a surface or substance that feels sticky, tacky, or gluey when touched.
The most common and natural way to say something is sticky to the touch. Often used for sweat, glue, tape residue, or sticky foods.
手がベタベタする。
My hands are sticky.
このテーブルはベタベタする。
This table is sticky.
Describes a slimy, gooey stickiness, like natto, okra, or mucus. More about viscosity and stringiness than tackiness.
納豆はネバネバしている。
Natto is sticky and slimy.
A more technical term meaning 'has adhesiveness'. Used for tapes, glues, or materials designed to stick.
このテープは粘着性がある。
This tape is sticky (has adhesive properties).
Describing hot, humid weather that makes your skin feel sticky.
The standard word for hot and humid weather that feels sticky. Combines 'steaming' and 'hot'.
今日は蒸し暑いね。
It's sticky and humid today, isn't it?
Describes damp, muggy stickiness, often associated with rainy season or sweaty discomfort.
梅雨でジメジメしている。
It's sticky and damp because of the rainy season.
Referring to a problematic, awkward, or tricky situation.
A general phrase for a troublesome or sticky situation.
それは厄介な状況だね。
That's a sticky situation, isn't it?
Specifically for an awkward or embarrassing social situation, like an uncomfortable silence.
気まずい沈黙が続いた。
A sticky (awkward) silence continued.
Describing someone who steals or has a tendency to steal.
ベタベタ is for tacky, glue-like stickiness (tape, sweat, candy). ネバネバ is for slimy, stringy stickiness (natto, okra, slime). Don't use ネバネバ for a sticky table unless it's covered in goo.
ガムがベタベタする。
The gum is sticky (tacky).
納豆がネバネバする。
Natto is sticky (slimy).
Avoid directly translating 'sticky' as スティッキー. It is not natural Japanese. Use the appropriate mimetic word or phrase depending on the type of stickiness.
✕ この机はスティッキーだ。
This desk is sticky. (unnatural)
○ この机はベタベタする。
This desk is sticky. (natural)