Guide: How to Say Sweets in Japanese

Gaining popularity around the world, Japanese cuisine offers a wide range of mouthwatering delights. From savory dishes to delectable desserts, it’s no surprise that sweets play a significant role in the culinary culture of Japan. If you’re a sweet tooth exploring the language, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to say “sweets” in Japanese, focusing on formal and informal ways, as well as regional variations.

Formal Ways to Say Sweets

When speaking in formal settings or using polite language, it’s appropriate to use the word “sweets” in Japanese. Here are a few expressions:

• お菓子 (okashi) – This is the most commonly used term for sweets or snacks in Japan. It encompasses a wide range of sweet treats, including traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets) and Western-style desserts.
• デザート (dezāto) – This borrowed English word is commonly used in formal contexts to refer to desserts.

Informal Ways to Say Sweets

When conversing with friends or in casual situations, you can opt for more informal expressions to say “sweets.” These variations are commonly used amongst peers:

• お菓子 (okashi) – This term, the same as the formal expression, can also be used casually. It’s versatile and suitable for different environments.
• おやつ (oyatsu) – This word specifically refers to snacks, including both sweet and savory options. However, it is commonly used among friends to talk about their favorite treats.
• スイーツ (suītsu) – Derived from the English word “sweets,” this loanword has gained significant popularity in Japan. It is commonly used among younger generations to refer to various desserts and sweet food items.
• 甘いもの (amai mono) – This expression literally translates to “sweet things” and can be used informally to discuss desserts and sugary treats.

Regional Variations

While the previous expressions are widely understood throughout Japan, regional variations also exist. Here are a few examples:

駄菓子 (dagashi) – In the Kanto region, especially Tokyo, this term refers to cheap, bite-sized candies and snacks often enjoyed by children.

It’s essential to note that when it comes to regional variations, the majority of Japanese people will still understand and use the more common expressions mentioned earlier.

Tips for Using the Terms

Now that you know several ways to say “sweets” in Japanese, here are some additional tips and examples to help you navigate your conversations:

• Consider the formality of the situation and choose the appropriate term. “Okashi” is the safest option for most scenarios.
• When visiting a traditional Japanese sweet shop, it’s polite to refer to their offerings as “wagashi.”
• Remember that while “sweets” is a common concept worldwide, the Japanese culinary culture has unique varieties of dessert. Be open to new experiences and indulge in the traditional wagashi.
• If you’re in a casual setting or with friends, feel free to use the more informal expressions such as “oyatsu” or “suītsu” to show your familiarity with the language.

Here are a few examples of how to incorporate the terms into sentences:

• “今日、おやつにどんなお菓子が食べたい？” (Kyō, oyatsu ni donna okashi ga tabetai?) – “What kind of sweets/snacks do you want to have for a snack today?”
• “デザートの中で、何が一番好きですか？” (Dezāto no naka de, nani ga ichiban suki desu ka?) – “Among desserts, what do you like the most?”

By using these tips and incorporating the suggested terms, you’ll be able to discuss and enjoy the delightful world of Japanese sweets more effectively.