Giving compliments in Japanese is a wonderful way to express admiration or appreciation for something or someone. When it comes to describing something as cute, the Japanese language offers several variations, each with its own level of formality and regional nuances. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “this is cute” in Japanese, including formal and informal expressions, as well as provide plenty of tips and examples for your reference.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
If you find yourself in a formal setting or wishing to express politeness, these phrases will come in handy:
1. かわいらしいです (kawairashii desu)
One of the most commonly used phrases to express cuteness in a formal manner is “かわいらしいです” (kawairashii desu). This phrase is appropriate for various situations, including complimenting a baby, a small animal, or an inanimate object. It is useful to remember that “かわいらしい” (kawairashii) without “です” (desu) is the dictionary form and can be used in less formal situations.
2. とても可愛いです (totemo kawaii desu)
If you want to emphasize the cuteness even further, you can say “とても可愛いです” (totemo kawaii desu), which translates as “very cute.” This expression works well when you want to convey a strong sense of admiration.
Informal Expressions
When you are in a casual setting or with friends, family, or loved ones, you can use these informal phrases to describe something as cute:
1. かわいい (kawaii)
The term “かわいい” (kawaii) is the most commonly used and widely recognized way to say “cute” in Japanese. It can be used for people, animals, objects, and various situations without sounding overly formal. This expression is simple yet incredibly versatile.
2. かわE (kawaE)
For an even more casual and playful way to say “cute,” you can use “かわE” (kawaE). This expression originated in the Kansai region of Japan and has gained popularity through its use in manga and anime. It adds a touch of charm and affection to your compliment.
Tips and Examples
Here are a few tips and examples to enhance your understanding of saying “this is cute” in Japanese:
1. Context Matters
Consider the context before selecting the appropriate phrase. In more formal situations, it is best to stick to the formal expressions. However, when talking with close friends or family, using informal phrases can create a sense of warmth and familiarity.
2. Vocal Tone
In Japanese culture, intonation and vocal tone play a significant role in expressing emotions. When saying “かわいい” (kawaii), be sure to add a light and affectionate tone to convey the cuteness effectively.
3. Complimenting Humans
If you want to compliment someone directly and tell them they are cute, you can use the following phrases:
- “あなたはとても可愛いです” (Anata wa totemo kawaii desu) – You are very cute (formal).
- “君はかわいいね” (Kimi wa kawaii ne) – You are cute, aren’t you (informal).
“あなたの笑顔がかわいいです” (Anata no egao ga kawaii desu) – Your smile is cute (formal).
4. Describing Objects and Animals
When describing objects or animals as cute:
- “このぬいぐるみはかわいらしいです” (Kono nuigurumi wa kawairashii desu) – This plush toy is cute (formal).
- “その子猫は本当にかわいい” (Sono koneko wa hontō ni kawaii) – That kitten is really cute (informal).
5. Superlatives
For emphasizing extreme cuteness:
- “これは最も可愛いものです” (Kore wa mottomo kawaii mono desu) – This is the cutest thing (formal).
- “あの子はめちゃくちゃ可愛いよ” (Ano ko wa mechakucha kawaii yo) – That kid is extremely cute (informal).
Remember to adapt your language to the level of formality and relationship with the person you are speaking to. The examples provided here should serve as a foundation for expressing cuteness in Japanese, but don’t be afraid to explore and expand your vocabulary to enrich your conversations!
Enjoy expressing your admiration for all the “かわいい” (kawaii) things you come across!
