1.
nail (metal fastener)
A pointed metal pin with a flat head, hammered into wood or other materials to hold things together.
She warned her son not to come home late.
[Note: 釘を刺す is an idiom meaning 'to warn, to caution']
釘 is a metal nail used in construction and woodworking. Counted with 本.
Common expressions
- 釘を打つ: to hammer a nail
- 釘を抜く: to pull out a nail
- 釘を刺す: to give a firm warning, to caution someone (literally "to stab with a nail")
- 釘付けになる: to be riveted, unable to look away (literally "nailed down")
Usage
In everyday life, 釘を刺す is the most commonly encountered expression. It means to clearly warn someone in advance so they don't forget or act carelessly.