Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Taste" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "taste", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
味わう
あじわう (ajiwau)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
好み
このみ (konomi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "taste" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 味わう and 好み.
In Japanese, 味わう (あじわう (ajiwau)) is typically associated with "to taste; to savor; to experience" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Primarily means to taste food, but can also mean to experience or appreciate something.
On the other hand, 好み (このみ (konomi)) maps to "taste; preference; liking" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to what someone likes or prefers. A literal translation of "taste" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "味わう"
ゆっくりワインの味を味わった。
I slowly savored the taste of the wine.
Bilingual Context for "好み"
人それぞれ好みがあります。
Everyone has their own preferences.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "ゆっくりワインの味を味わった。" (Meaning: "I slowly savored the taste of the wine.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "味わう" fits here because it means "to taste; to savor; to experience" in the context of: "I slowly savored the taste of the wine.". "好み" represents "taste; preference; liking".