In Japan, food is not only a necessity but also a deep part of their culture and social interactions. Expressing your appreciation for delicious food is considered polite and a way to show respect. Japanese language offers various ways to say “it is delicious.” In this guide, we will explore formal and informal expressions along with regional variations, providing you with examples and valuable tips for each.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
Formal expressions are used in professional, polite, or formal situations. It is essential to understand and use them appropriately.
- Oishii desu – This is the standard and most formal way to say “it is delicious” in Japanese. It can be used in any situation, making it a safe choice. The phrase “oishii” means “delicious,” and “desu” indicates politeness and formality. However, it can sound stiff if used with close friends or family members.
- Gochisousama deshita – This phrase is used after finishing a meal as a way to thank the host or the person who prepared the food. It translates to “It was a feast,” expressing gratitude and showing you enjoyed the meal. While not directly translating to “delicious,” it implies that the food was indeed delicious.
- Meshiagare – When dining at a traditional Japanese restaurant, you can use this phrase after receiving your food. It is a polite way to say “bon appétit” or “enjoy your meal.”
Informal Expressions:
Informal expressions are used with close friends, family, or people of similar age. It is important to be aware of your relationship with the person you’re speaking to when using these informal phrases.
- Oishii yo – This is an intimate and casual way to say “it is delicious.” The addition of “yo” at the end adds emphasis. It can be used among friends, family, or with people of similar age.
- Mazu mekuru – This phrase is more colloquial and commonly used in casual conversations. It directly translates to “It tastes good.” While not as widely used as other expressions, it is still appropriate to use among friends.
Regional Variations:
Japanese language and culture have various regional dialects and expressions. While some regional variations exist, most people will understand and appreciate standard expressions. However, if you want to dive deeper into the Japanese language, explore these regional variations:
Osaka Dialect: Osaka is famous for their vibrant street food culture and unique dialect. In Osaka dialect, “delicious” is pronounced as “ummai” or “meccha oishii.” So you could say “Ummai!” or “Meccha oishii ne!” to express the deliciousness of the food in Osaka style.
Tips for Using Expressions:
When it comes to expressing the deliciousness of food in Japanese, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Tone and expression: Japanese people use tonal variations and facial expressions to convey their feelings about food. Let your enthusiasm and positive emotions be reflected in your tone and facial expression when praising the food.
- Timing: It is common to express your appreciation after taking the first bite. Waiting for a pause in the conversation or a moment of silence is a good opportunity to compliment the food.
- Using gestures: Along with verbal expressions, you can enhance your compliments by using hand gestures to indicate how delicious the food is. For example, bringing your hand to your mouth and slightly tilting your head can convey the message effectively.
- Be genuine: Authenticity is key when expressing your appreciation for food. Japanese people value sincerity, so make sure your compliments are heartfelt and honest.
Remember, expressing your enjoyment of food is an excellent way to connect with Japanese culture and build relationships. So, go ahead and savor the delicacies while conveying your appreciation with these useful phrases.
Conclusion
Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its distinct flavors, presentation, and cultural significance. By learning how to say “it is delicious” in Japanese, you can fully immerse yourself in the culinary delights the country has to offer. Whether you use formal expressions like “oishii desu” or opt for a more casual “oishii yo,” your appreciation for the food will be warmly received. Remember to adjust your expressions based on the formality of the situation and your relationship with the people around you. So, next time you enjoy a mouthwatering meal, don’t hesitate to compliment the chef and let them know itadakimasu!
