おいしいです
oishii desu
The English phrase 'it is delicious' can be translated into Japanese as おいしいです (oishii desu).
This phrase is used to express that food or drink tastes good. In Japanese, the subject 'it' is often omitted when it is clear from the context that you are talking about the food in front of you.
Which one should you use?
While おいしいです is a standard polite way to express that something is delicious, you may also encounter うまい, which is a more colloquial and masculine way to say something is tasty, often used by men in casual settings. Additionally, Oishii yo provides an intimate and casual way to say 'it is delicious' with added emphasis.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
おいしいです is the polite form. Adding です (desu) to the end of the adjective makes the phrase suitable for most social situations, such as dining with acquaintances or superiors. In contrast, うまい is more colloquial and Oishii yo is considered an intimate and casual way to speak.
How do you pronounce it?
oishii desu
Did you know?
- Japanese has a specific word 旨味 (umami) to describe a savory taste that is neither sweet, sour, salty nor bitter. This word is the root of the 'savory' sensation that makes food おいしい.
- The word うまい can also mean 'skillful' or 'clever'. If you say it while watching someone play an instrument or cook, you are praising their talent rather than the taste of the food.
- In Japanese culture, it is common to say おいしいです more than once during a meal. Repeating the phrase serves as a social signal to the host or chef that you are genuinely enjoying the food.
Examples in context
- このケーキはとてもおいしいです。Kono keeki wa totemo oishii desu.This cake is very delicious.
- 母の料理はいつもおいしいです。Haha no ryouri wa itsumo oishii desu.My mother's cooking is always delicious.
- このお茶はとてもおいしいです。Kono ocha wa totemo oishii desu.This tea is very delicious.
Example conversation
Misaki and Ren are eating lunch together.
- 美咲 Misaki蓮くん、このお弁当はどうですか？Ren-kun, kono obentô wa dô desu ka?Ren, how is this lunch box?
- 蓮 Renはい、とてもおいしいです。Hai, totemo oishii desu.Yes, it is very delicious.
- 美咲 Misakiよかったです。Yokatta desu.I am glad.
- 蓮 Ren美咲さんが作ったんですね。Misaki-san ga tsukutta n desu ne.You made it, didn't you, Misaki?
