Translation guide
The English word 'bristle' can refer to a stiff hair or fiber, or to a reaction of anger or irritation. This guide covers both the noun and verb uses.
Referring to a short, stiff hair, such as on an animal, a brush, or a plant.
General term for stiff, coarse hair or bristles, often used for animal fur or brush bristles.
Generic word for hair or fur; can mean bristle in context, but is broader.
ブラシの毛が抜けている。
The bristles of the brush are falling out.
Refers to thorns or spines on plants or animals; sometimes used for bristle-like structures.
Describing a sudden, visible reaction of anger, annoyance, or defensiveness.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'to bristle with anger,' literally 'to make one's hair stand on end in anger.'
彼はその侮辱に怒りで毛を逆立てた。
He bristled at the insult.
Do not translate 'bristle' (verb) directly as 剛毛する or similar. Use idiomatic expressions for the emotional reaction.
そのブラシは豚の剛毛でできている。
That brush is made of pig bristles.
The leaves of that plant have fine bristles.
Casual expression for getting annoyed or offended, often visibly.
彼女はその冗談にムッとした。
She bristled at the joke.
To react against something, to push back; can convey bristling at an idea or criticism.
彼はその提案に反発した。
He bristled at the suggestion.
To brace oneself or become defensive; implies a physical bristling reaction.
批判を聞いて彼は身構えた。
He bristled when he heard the criticism.