Translation guide
The English word 'flavor' can refer to the taste of food, a particular variety or type, or a distinctive quality or atmosphere. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Describing the taste or savor of something edible.
The most common and general word for 'flavor' or 'taste'. Used for both good and bad tastes.
This soup has a good flavor.
味が薄い。
The flavor is weak.
Refers to a more nuanced or delicate flavor, often used for tea, coffee, or wine. Implies a pleasant, aromatic quality.
このコーヒーは風味が豊かだ。
This coffee has a rich flavor.
Loanword from English, often used for artificial or specific flavors like vanilla or strawberry, especially in processed foods.
バニラフレーバーのアイスクリーム
vanilla-flavored ice cream
Refers to a deep, rich flavor or the overall experience of tasting something. Often used in a more poetic or refined context.
このワインは深い味わいがある。
This wine has a deep flavor.
Referring to a particular version or kind of something, like a flavor of ice cream.
Used to indicate a flavor variety, just like in English. Commonly used with foods.
どの味が好きですか？
Which flavor do you like?
チョコレート味
chocolate flavor
Also used for varieties, especially in marketing or when listing options.
Describing the character or feel of something, like the flavor of a city or an era.
Refers to a subtle, elegant charm or atmosphere. Often used for places, art, or experiences.
この町には独特の趣がある。
This town has a unique flavor.
Can also be used metaphorically for a deep, rich quality or character.
More commonly means 'atmosphere' or 'mood', but can be used when 'flavor' refers to the general feel of a place or situation.
Literally 'hue' or 'coloring', but can be used metaphorically to mean a nuance or flavor, especially in expressions.
味 (あじ) is the general term for taste. 風味 (ふうみ) emphasizes aroma and delicate flavor, often used for beverages. 味わい (あじわい) implies a deeper, more experiential flavor, often used in refined contexts.
When 'flavor' means atmosphere or character, do not use 味 directly. Use 趣 (おもむき) or 雰囲気 (ふんいき) instead. Saying 味 for a town's flavor would be unnatural.
このお茶の風味が好きです。
I like the flavor of this tea.
その祭りは日本の伝統的な趣がありました。
The festival had a traditional Japanese flavor.
新フレーバー登場！
New flavor now available!
彼の作品には独特の味わいがある。
His works have a distinctive flavor.
This shop has a Showa-era flavor.
言葉に地域の色合いが出ている。
The language has a regional flavor.