How to use 釘 (くぎ)

Meaning of 釘

The Japanese verb "釘" (くぎ, kugi) can have various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here's a list of its primary meanings along with examples:

  1. Nail: A slender, pointed piece of metal used for fastening wood or other materials.
    • Example: 壁に絵をかけるために釘を打ちました。
    • Translation: I hammered a nail into the wall to hang a picture.
  2. Spike: Can refer to a larger or more specialized type of nail, like railway spikes.
    • Example: 鉄道のレールに使う大釘。
    • Translation: A large nail used for railway tracks.
  3. Figurative nail: Used metaphorically to describe something that pins or secures firmly, not always physically.
    • Example: その証拠が事件の釘となった。
    • Translation: That evidence became the nail of the case.

Learn 釘 from Full Metal Alchemist Anime