Japanese culture is famous for its love of all things cute, or “kawaii” as they say in Japanese. If you’re looking to express how adorable something or someone is, this guide will provide you with different ways to say “really cute” in both formal and informal contexts. Additionally, we’ll explore a few regional variations that may come in handy. Get ready to add some kawaii vocabulary to your Japanese repertoire!
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Formal Ways to Say “Really Cute”
When you want to express cuteness with a touch of formality, here are a few phrases to use:
1. とてもかわいい (totemo kawaii)
The phrase “とてもかわいい” directly translates to “very cute” in English. This expression can be used in various situations and is suitable both for people and objects.
Example 1:
A: この猫、とてもかわいいですね。
B: はい、本当に可愛いです。Translation:
A: This cat is very cute, isn’t it?
B: Yes, it’s really adorable.
2. とっても可愛らしい (tottemo kawairashii)
This phrase captures a bit more elegance and charm and can be used to describe someone or something as being “endearingly cute.”
Example 2:
A: あなたのドレス、とっても可愛らしいですね。
B: ありがとうございます！気に入っています。Translation:
A: Your dress is really lovely.
B: Thank you! I’m really fond of it.
Informal Ways to Say “Really Cute”
When it’s appropriate to use a more casual expression of cuteness, consider these informal phrases:
1. すごく可愛い (sugoku kawaii)
“すごく可愛い” is an informal way to say “really cute” and is commonly used in everyday conversations among friends or family members.
Example 3:
A: あの子、すごく可愛いよね。
B: うん、最近めっちゃ可愛くなったよ。Translation:
A: That child is really cute, right?
B: Yeah, they’ve become incredibly cute recently.
2. 超かわいい (chou kawaii)
If you want to express an even higher level of cuteness, you can use “超かわいい.” This term carries a sense of excitement and exaggeration.
Example 4:
A: 今日の猫動画、見て！めちゃくちゃ超かわいいよ！
B: 本当に？見せてみて！Translation:
A: Look at today’s cat video! It’s ridiculously cute!
B: Really? Show me!
Regional Variations
Japan has various regional dialects, which sometimes come with their own unique expressions. While not essential for everyday conversation, these variations can add a touch of local charm. Here’s an example from the Kansai region:
1. めっちゃ可愛い (meccha kawaii)
In the Kansai dialect, particularly in the Osaka area, people often say “めっちゃ可愛い” instead of “すごく可愛い” to mean “really cute.”
Example 5:
A: なんでそんなにめっちゃ可愛いん？
B: そんなことないやん！Translation:
A: Why are you so incredibly cute?
B: I’m not like that at all!
Wrapping Up
Now that you have learned various ways to say “really cute” in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can express your admiration for adorable things and adorable people with confidence! Remember to adapt your choice of words to fit the formality of the situation. Whether you’re using “とてもかわいい” in a polite setting or going for a more casual “超かわいい,” you’ll surely make an impression with your appreciation of cuteness, kawaii!
