Translation guide
The English word 'glue' refers to an adhesive substance used to stick things together. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is のり (糊), but there are also specific words for different types of glue, as well as related verbs and expressions.
Referring to common glue used in crafts, school, or office settings.
The most general and common word for glue. It can refer to liquid glue, glue sticks, or paste. Often written in hiragana, but the kanji is 糊.
Please glue the paper with glue.
こののりはすぐ乾きます。
This glue dries quickly.
A more technical term for adhesive or bonding agent. Used for stronger glues, like for woodworking or industrial purposes.
この接着剤は金属にも使えます。
This adhesive can be used on metal as well.
Specifically a solid glue in a twist-up tube.
Literally 'stick glue'. The most common way to refer to a glue stick.
スティックのりを買ってきて。
Buy a glue stick.
The action of applying glue to attach things.
Means 'to stick' or 'to paste', often implying the use of glue. Used for paper, stamps, posters, etc.
切手を封筒に貼ってください。
Please stick the stamp on the envelope.
ポスターを壁に貼った。
I put up a poster on the wall (using glue/tape).
A casual verb meaning 'to attach' or 'to stick together'. Can be used with glue or other methods.
A formal or technical verb meaning 'to bond' or 'to adhere'. Used in instructions or technical contexts.
部品を接着剤で接着します。
Bond the parts with adhesive.
Traditional Japanese glue made from rice or starch, often used in crafts or bookbinding.
Starch glue, often homemade or used in traditional settings.
でんぷんのりで和紙を貼ります。
Glue Japanese paper with starch paste.
のり is the everyday word for glue, used for paper, crafts, and school supplies. 接着剤 is a stronger, more technical term for adhesives used in construction, repairs, or industrial applications.
工作にはのりを使います。
We use glue for crafts.
この接着剤は耐水性があります。
This adhesive is waterproof.
In English, 'glue' can metaphorically mean something that unites people. In Japanese, のり is not used this way. Instead, use 絆 (きずな) for bonds or 接着剤 metaphorically only in very specific contexts.
この工作にのりが必要です。
I need some glue for this project.
のりが乾いてしまった。
The glue has dried out.
この割れた花瓶を接着剤でくっつけられる？
Can you glue this broken vase?
壊れたおもちゃを接着剤でくっつけた。
I glued the broken toy back together.