蕪
kabu[ka̠bɯ̟]
The Japanese word for turnip is 蕪 (kabu). Wiktionary also lists 蕪菜 (kabuna) and 菘 (suzuna).
Meaning: white root of Brassica rapa (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 蕪 | kabu | [ka̠bɯ̟] (narrow) [ka̠bɯ̟ɾa̠] (narrow) |
| 蕪菜 | kabuna | [ka̠bɯ̟na̠] (narrow) [ka̠bɯ̟ɾa̠na̠] (narrow) |
| 菘 | suzuna | [sɨzɨna̠] (narrow) |
This term refers to the white root of the Brassica rapa plant.
Which one should you use?
蕪 (kabu) is the general term for turnip, while 蕪菜 (kabuna) and 菘 (suzuna) are other specific forms or names used for the plant.
How do you pronounce it?
kabu
Did you know?
- The word 'kabu' is a homophone for 'stock' or 'share' in a financial context, meaning a conversation about 'kabu' could accidentally shift from gardening to the stock market.
- While kabu is the general term, suzuna specifically describes a variety of turnip that is smaller and more rounded, reflecting the 'bell' origin of its name.
- Because 菘 (suzuna) is an older or more specific term, you might find it in classical Japanese literature or traditional recipes rather than modern supermarket signs.
Examples in context
- 蕪を切ります。kabura o kirimasu.I will cut the turnip.
- この蕪はとても甘いです。kono kabura wa totemo amai desu.This turnip is very sweet.
- 蕪の煮物を作りました。kabura no nimono o tsukurimashita.I made simmered turnip.
Example conversation
Himari and Yota are preparing dinner in the kitchen.
- 陽葵 Himari陽太、この蕪を使っていい？Yota, kono kabu o tsukatte ii?Yota, can I use this turnip?
- 陽太 Yotaうん、いいよ。何を作るの？Un, ii yo. Nani o tsukuru no?Yeah, go ahead. What are you making?
- 陽葵 Himari蕪の煮物を作るつもりだよ。Kabu no nimono o tsukuru tsumori dayo.I'm planning to make simmered turnips.
- 陽太 Yota美味しそうだね。楽しみだな。Oishisou da ne. Tanoshimi dana.That sounds delicious. I'm looking forward to it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “turnip” translations and entries 蕪, 蕪菜, 菘, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
