How to say "smear" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 塗るぬるgodan verb, transitive verbCovers the physical sense: spreading a substance such as paint or cream onto a surface. Use this when 'smear' means applying something, as in smearing ointment on the skin.
- nounRefers to the result of smearing—a stain, smudge, or blot left on paper or fabric. Note that when 'smear' is a verb of applying, this noun is not what you use; it names the mark itself.
- 中傷ちゅうしょうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbOnly for the figurative sense of smearing someone, meaning slander or defamation. For accusing someone unfairly of damaging a reputation, this is the word; it never refers to physical smearing.
Use 「塗る」 for physically smearing something on a surface, 「しみ」 for the mark left by a smear, and 中傷 only for the figurative sense of smearing someone's reputation.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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