Gaining familiarity with colors is an essential part of learning any language. If you’re interested in learning Japanese or simply expanding your vocabulary, it’s important to know how to describe colors accurately. In this guide, we will focus on the word for “blue” in Japanese, covering both the formal and informal ways to express this color. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say Blue in Japanese
In formal situations or when speaking politely, the Japanese word for the color “blue” is “ao.” This word is often used in combination with another word to specify different shades of blue. Here are a few examples:
1. Light Blue – Mizuiro
In Japanese, “mizuiro” is used to describe the light shade of blue. It primarily refers to the color of clear, blue water. This term can also mean “sky blue” or “baby blue.” For instance, you can say:
きれいな水色のワンピースが好きです。(Kirei na mizuiro no wanpīsu ga suki desu.)
I like the beautiful light blue dress.
2. Dark Blue – Kon
If you wish to refer to the darker shade of blue, the Japanese word “kon” is used. It embodies the color of the deep sea or the night sky. Take a look at the following example:
そのトラックは濃い青色です。(Sono torakku wa koi ao iro desu.)
That truck is a dark blue color.
Informal Way to Say Blue in Japanese
When you are in a more casual setting or speaking informally with friends or family, the Japanese language offers another term for the color “blue.” This word is “burū,” which was borrowed from the English language. Japanese youth commonly use this word in various contexts. Let’s see how to use it:
1. Sky Blue – Sora Iro
To describe the color of the sky, you can use the Japanese phrase “sora iro” which literally translates to “sky color.” This term, often seen as more informal, can also represent a lighter shade of blue. Here’s an example:
今日は空色のシャツを着ています。(Kyō wa sora iro no shatsu o kiteimasu.)
Today, I’m wearing a sky blue shirt.
2. Navy Blue – Nēbi Iro
For the color “navy blue,” the Japanese phrase “nēbi iro” is commonly used. It refers to a dark shade of blue often associated with naval uniforms. For instance:
彼女のネイビー色のバッグは素敵ですね。(Kanojo no nēbī-iro no baggu wa suteki desu ne.)
Her navy blue bag looks lovely, doesn’t it?
Regional Variations
While the terms mentioned above are used across Japan, it’s worth noting that certain regions may have their own unique expressions for the color “blue.” These variations are generally not necessary to know for basic communication, but let’s take a look at a couple of examples:
1. Aomiiro
In the Kansai region, specifically in and around Osaka, people tend to use the word “aomiiro” instead of “ao” to refer to the color blue. This variation carries the same meaning as the more widely used “ao.” Here’s an example:
あの花瓶の青味がとてもきれいです。(Ano kabin no aomiiro ga totemo kirei desu.)
The bluish tint of that vase is very beautiful.
2. Seijiiro
In the Tohoku region, particularly in and around Sendai, the word “seijiiro” is occasionally used to describe the color blue. Again, this variation can be replaced by “ao” without affecting understanding. An example of “seijiiro” usage is:
この風景は青味が濃いですね。(Kono fūkei wa aomiiro ga koi desu ne.)
There is a strong bluish tint in this scenery, isn’t there?
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned how to say the color “blue” in Japanese. Remember, in formal settings, use the word “ao,” and in informal contexts, go for “burū.” You can further specify the shade of blue with words like “mizuiro” (light blue), “kon” (dark blue), “sora iro” (sky blue), or “nēbi iro” (navy blue). Feel free to use these expressions to accurately describe various objects and talk about your favorite blue things. The included regional variations demonstrate the diversity of language within Japan, but they are not essential for everyday communication.
