How to say "stuff" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 詰め込むつめこむgodan verb, transitive verbThe verb for stuffing or cramming things tightly into a container or space until it is full. Use this when 'stuff' means packing items in densely.
- nounThe noun 'stuff' in the sense of things or objects. Use this when 'stuff' is a vague word for 'things', not for the action of filling something.
- 突っ込むつっこむgodan verb, transitive verbTo shove or thrust something into something, so it covers 'stuff' with a nuance of forceful, quick insertion rather than careful packing. The emphasis is on the pushing motion.
- 埋めるうずめるichidan verb, transitive verbTo fill something completely, leaving no empty space, so it matches 'stuff' or 'pack' when the point is that a container or space ends up full. The nuance is completeness of filling.
- 代物しろものnounA noun meaning a fine thing, fellow, or affair; its 'stuff' is evaluative rather than neutral. For stuff in the plain sense of things or belongings, this is seldom the word you want.
Choose 「詰め込む」 to stuff things tightly in, 「突っ込む」 to shove them in, 「埋める」 to fill a space completely, and 「もの」 for the noun 'stuff' meaning things; 代物 is 'stuff' only in the sense of a fine thing.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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