チクリ
chikuri
The Japanese phrase for the verb 'to snitch' is チクリ (chikuri).
チクリ is used to describe the act of informing on someone.
Meaning: inform on (verb)
Which one should you use?
The word 密告者 is a formal way to say snitch and ちくったやつ is an informal way to say snitch.
How do you pronounce it?
chikuri
Did you know?
- In Yakuza culture, the act of snitching is considered the ultimate betrayal and is historically punished with 指詰め, the ritual cutting off of a finger.
- The word チクリ is an onomatopoeia that mimics the sharp, stinging sensation of a needle prick. It describes the act of snitching as if the information itself is a small, painful sting to the person being told on.
- While チクリ is common, the term 密告 for reporting is often associated with the dark history of the wartime 'thought police' and neighborly spying during the 1930s and 40s.
Examples in context
- 先生は生徒がクラスメイトを告げ口したことについて叱責した。The teacher scolded the student for snitching on their classmates.
- ちくったやつになるな！これはお互いの間でだけにしといてくれよ。Don't be a snitch! Keep this between us.
Example conversation
Two siblings are talking about a broken vase.
- 陽葵 Himari陽太、お母さんにチクリするよ！Youta, okaasan ni chikuri suru yo!Youta, I'm going to snitch to Mom!
- 陽太 Yotaお願い、チクリしないで！Onegai, chikuri shinaide!Please, don't snitch!
- 陽葵 Himariじゃあ、お菓子をちょうだい。Jaa, okashi o choudai.Then, give me some candy.
- 陽太 Yotaわかった、全部あげるよ。Wakatta, zenbu ageru yo.Alright, I'll give you everything.
