When it comes to expressing how much you enjoy the taste of food or beverages in Japanese, there are various phrases and words you can use depending on the situation, level of formality, and regional preferences. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal expressions for saying “it tastes good” in Japanese, providing tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
In formal settings, such as when interacting with strangers, superiors, or in professional settings, it is important to use more polite language. Here are some formal ways to express that something tastes good:
“Oishii desu” – This simple and widely used phrase translates directly to “It is delicious.” It is appropriate for various situations and dishes. Though it may seem basic, it’s a polite and safe choice that conveys your appreciation for the taste.
Example:
“この料理はとてもおいしいです。” (Kono ryouri wa totemo oishii desu.) – “This dish is very delicious.”
“Gochisou sama deshita” – This expression is commonly used after a meal to show gratitude and appreciation for the food served. It can be translated as “Thank you for the meal” or “That was a treat.”
Example:
“ごちそうさまでした。おいしかったです。” (Gochisou sama deshita. Oishikatta desu.) – “Thank you for the meal. It was delicious.”
Informal Expressions:
When speaking with friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use less formal language to express how tasty something is. Here are some informal phrases:
“Oishii” – This is the casual form of “oishii desu.” It is frequently used in everyday conversations and among friends to appreciate the taste of food or drinks.
Example:
“このケーキ、おいしい！” (Kono keeki, oishii!) – “This cake is delicious!”
“Umai” – In certain regions of Japan, particularly in the Kansai area (including cities like Osaka and Kyoto), locals often use “umai” instead of “oishii” to convey the same meaning. It’s a regional variation to keep in mind.
Example:
“このラーメン、うまいね！” (Kono ramen, umai ne!) – “This ramen is tasty, isn’t it?”
Tips for Expressing That Food Tastes Good:
Here are some additional tips to make your expressions about food taste even more natural and flavorful:
1. Add adverbs:
Enhance your descriptions by adding adverbs to convey the intensity of your enjoyment. For example:
- Totemo: Very
- Sugoku: Extremely
- Ai ni: Really/Truly
Example: “このチョコレートはとてもおいしいです！” (Kono chokoreeto wa totemo oishii desu!) – “This chocolate is very delicious!”
2. Use onomatopoeia:
Japanese is rich in onomatopoeic words that mimic sounds or describe certain sensations. Incorporating these can make your expressions more vivid and creative:
- Peko peko: Used to describe a growling stomach, indicating extreme hunger and that anything will taste good.
- Mogu mogu: Describes the chewing sound, indicating satisfaction with the texture of the food.
Example: “おなかがぺこぺこで、何でもおいしいです！” (Onaka ga peko peko de, nan demo oishii desu!) – “I’m so hungry that everything tastes delicious!”
3. Combine with “sou desu ne”
To show agreement or convey a shared sentiment, you can combine your expressions with “sou desu ne” which means “that’s how it is.” It creates a sense of camaraderie over the appreciation of food.
Example: “この寿司、おいしいそうですね！” (Kono sushi, oishii sou desu ne!) – “This sushi seems delicious, doesn’t it?”
Remember to adapt your choice of phrases and level of formality based on the situation and the people you are speaking with. Enjoy exploring the flavors of Japanese cuisine and let your taste buds guide you on this delicious journey!
