When it comes to expressing appreciation for good taste in Japanese, there are various phrases and expressions that can be used, both formally and informally. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “good taste” in Japanese, providing tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
The Formal Way to Say “Good Taste”
When expressing good taste formally in Japanese, you can use the phrase “おいしい味” (oishii aji). This phrase is commonly used to appreciate the delicious taste of food and can also be applied to describe the excellence of other things. Let’s take a look at some examples:
彼の料理は本当においしい味です。
(Kare no ryouri wa hontou ni oishii aji desu.)
His cooking has a really good taste.このお店のスイーツはおいしい味がしますね。
(Kono mise no suiitsu wa oishii aji ga shimasu ne.)
The sweets at this shop have a good taste, don’t they?
Another formal phrase you can use is “美味しい味わい” (oishii ajiwai), which conveys a sense of enjoyment and satisfaction in experiencing something with good taste. This phrase can be used to describe not only food but also various other items, such as museums, artworks, or even fashion:
この展示品は美味しい味わいがありますね。
(Kono tenjihin wa oishii ajiwai ga arimasu ne.)
This exhibit has a delightful taste.彼女のファッションセンスはいつも美味しい味わいのあるものばかりです。
(Kanojo no fasshon sensu wa itsumo oishii ajiwai no aru mono bakari desu.)
Her fashion sense is always filled with good taste.
The Informal Way to Say “Good Taste”
When expressing good taste informally in Japanese, you can use the word “うまい” (umai). This term not only signifies good taste but also implies great skill or expertise in a particular area:
この料理、うまいよね！
(Kono ryouri, umai yo ne!)
This dish is delicious, right?そのアーティストの絵はうますぎる。
(Sono aatisuto no e wa umasugiru.)
That artist’s painting is incredibly good.
Another informal term for expressing good taste is “美味い” (umai). It is often used in casual conversations and can describe the taste of food, drinks, or anything enjoyable:
あのラーメン屋さんのラーメンは美味いんだよ。
(Ano ramen-ya-san no ramen wa umai n da yo.)
The ramen at that ramen shop is really delicious.このビールは美味いな。
(Kono biiru wa umai na.)
This beer tastes amazing.
Regional Variations
While Japanese has standard expressions, regional variations can add flavor to the language. In Osaka, where the dialect is known for its unique accent and vocabulary, they have a distinct way of saying “good taste.” In Osaka dialect, the phrase “まいう～” (mai-u) is commonly used to express “delicious” or “tasty.” Here are a few examples:
このたこ焼き、まいう～！
(Kono takoyaki, mai-u!)
This takoyaki is incredibly delicious!そのお好み焼きはまいう～ね。
(Sono okonomiyaki wa mai-u ne.)
That okonomiyaki tastes absolutely amazing, doesn’t it?
Keep in mind that while regional variations can be fun and interesting to use, it’s important to use them appropriately and understand the context in which they are acceptable.
Summary
In summary, expressing good taste in Japanese can be done formally and informally using different phrases and expressions. When speaking formally, “おいしい味” (oishii aji) and “美味しい味わい” (oishii ajiwai) can demonstrate appreciation for good taste. In informal settings, “うまい” (umai) and “美味い” (umai) are commonly used to convey satisfaction with the taste of various items. Additionally, regional variations like “まいう～” (mai-u) in Osaka dialect can add color to your expressions of good taste.
Remember to use these phrases in appropriate situations, and don’t hesitate to explore other resources and practice to enhance your understanding of Japanese language and culture. Happy expressing and enjoy the magnificent world of good taste!
