1.
hornet; yellowjacket
A large, aggressive species of wasp known for its painful sting. The most dangerous type of bee or wasp in Japan.
雀蜂に刺されたら危険だ。
It's dangerous if you get stung by a hornet.
山で雀蜂の巣を見つけた。
I found a hornet's nest in the mountains.
雀蜂は秋になると特に攻撃的になる。
Hornets become especially aggressive in autumn.
雀蜂 are large, aggressive wasps known for their painful and potentially dangerous stings. They are the most dangerous type of bee or wasp in Japan, causing more insect-related deaths than any other species.
WRITING VARIATIONS:
Also commonly written in katakana as スズメバチ, especially in scientific or informational contexts.
TYPES:
- オオスズメバチ — giant hornet (the largest and most dangerous)
- キイロスズメバチ — yellow hornet
SAFETY NOTE:
Multiple stings can cause anaphylactic shock. If you encounter a nest, do not approach — contact a professional exterminator.