Translation guide
The English word 'screw' can refer to a fastener, the action of fastening, or various idiomatic uses. This guide covers the most common Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
A metal fastener with a helical ridge, used with a screwdriver.
The general word for a screw. Can be used for both wood screws and machine screws.
Please tighten this screw.
ねじが緩んでいる。
The screw is loose.
Often used for smaller screws, especially in DIY or woodworking contexts. Borrowed from French 'vis'.
木工用のビスを買った。
I bought woodworking screws.
To attach or secure something using a screw.
Literally 'to fasten with a screw'. The most natural way to express the action.
棚を壁にねじで留めた。
I screwed the shelf to the wall.
To screw in, to drive a screw into something. Implies forceful insertion.
ねじを最後までねじ込んでください。
Please screw it in all the way.
To rotate something, often to attach or detach it, like a lid or a bolt.
General verb for turning or rotating something. Used for screwing/unscrewing lids, knobs, etc.
瓶の蓋を回して開ける。
Screw off the jar lid.
つまみを右に回してください。
Please turn the knob to the right.
To twist, wring, or screw. Often used for twisting something flexible or turning a small object.
To treat someone unfairly or cheat them out of something.
General verb for deceiving or cheating someone.
彼は私を騙して金を取った。
He screwed me out of my money.
To overcharge or rip off. Very colloquial.
To mess up or ruin something.
Vulgar term for sexual intercourse.
Very crude slang for having sex. Use with extreme caution.
Highly vulgar and offensive. Not appropriate in polite conversation.
あの二人、やってるらしいよ。
I heard those two are screwing.
English 'screw' has many slang meanings that do not translate directly to ねじ. For example, 'screw up' is not ねじを上げる but 失敗する or やらかす. Always consider the intended meaning before choosing a Japanese equivalent.
He twisted open the plastic bottle cap.
あの店にぼったくられた。
I got screwed by that store (overcharged).