Translation and Meaning of: 味わう - ajiwau

If you've ever tried a Japanese dish and felt that unique taste that deserves to be savored slowly, then you've already grasped part of what the word 味わう (あじわう) represents. However, its meaning goes beyond taste — it carries cultural and even philosophical nuances. In this article, you will discover the etymology of this expression, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and even tips to memorize its kanji. Additionally, here at Suki Nihongo, you will find practical examples to include in your Anki and boost your studies.

Many people search on Google not only for the translation of 味わう but also for its origin and how to use it in real contexts. Can it be used to describe experiences that do not involve food? And what does the pictogram reveal about its deep meaning? Let's unravel all of this ahead, with examples that will make you want to use this word in your next conversation in Japanese.

Etymology and Pictogram: The Hidden Flavor in Kanji

The verb 味わう is composed of two kanji: 味 (あじ), which means "taste" or "flavor", and わう, a suffix that indicates action. Together, they form the idea of "experiencing a flavor", but with a depth that goes beyond the physical. The kanji 味, for example, is a combination of 口 (mouth) and 未 (not yet), suggesting something that has not yet been fully understood — like a taste that requires attention to be deciphered.

Interestingly, this same kanji appears in words like 意味 (meaning) and 趣味 (hobby), showing how the concept of "flavor" extends to abstract areas in Japanese. When you say 人生を味わう, for example, you are talking about "savoring life," meaning to experience it intensely. It's no wonder that Japanese restaurants use this word on menus to invite customers to a complete gastronomic experience.

Use in Daily Life: From Dish to Emotions

In the kitchen, 味わう is often used to describe the act of tasting a dish with attention to detail. A chef might say このスープをゆっくり味わってください ("Please savor this soup slowly"), emphasizing the importance of appreciating every nuance. But the word also appears in emotional contexts, such as when someone recalls a cherished memory: あの瞬間を今でも味わっている ("I still savor that moment").

A valuable tip for those studying Japanese: pay attention to the adverbs that accompany this verb. Expressions like じっくり味わう (savor carefully) or 心から味わう (savor from the heart) reveal a lot about the intention behind the action. And if you want to sound more natural, try using it to describe not only food, but also books, music, and even landscapes — the Japanese love this flexibility.

Memory Tips and Cultural Curiosities

To not forget how to write 味わう, imagine that the kanji 味 is a mouth (口) trying to decipher something mysterious (未). This visual association helps to fix both the writing and the meaning. Another trick is to that, just like a good wine, this word requires time to be appreciated — both in pronunciation (a-jí-wa-u) and in usage.

In Japan, there is even a proverb that says 味わうほどに深みが出る ("The more you savor, the more depth appears"). It is used for both food and relationships, as well as learning. How about trying to apply this to your Japanese studies? Instead of just memorizing words, try 味わう each new expression, noticing its connections and stories. You'll see how the process becomes much richer.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 味わい (ajiwai) - Flavor, appreciation
• 味わえる (ajiwaeru) - Can be savored
• 味わってみる (ajiwatte miru) - Try to savor
• 味わってみたい (ajiwatte mitai) - Want to try tasting
• 味わいたい (ajiwaitai) - To desire to savor
• 味わい深い (ajiwai bukai) - Deeply flavorful
• 味わい豊かな (ajiwai yutakana) - Richly flavorful
• 味わいがある (ajiwai ga aru) - It has flavor.
• 味わいを楽しむ (ajiwai o tanoshimu) - Enjoy the flavor
• 味わいを感じる (ajiwai o kanjiru) - Feel the flavor
• 味わいを堪能する (ajiwai o tan'nou suru) - Fully enjoy the flavor
• 味わいを知る (ajiwai o shiru) - Experience the flavor
• 味わいを追求する (ajiwai o tsuikyuu suru) - Seek the flavor
• 味わいを愉しむ (ajiwai o tanoshimu) - Pleasure in savoring
• 味わいを極める (ajiwai o kiwameru) - Refine the flavor
• 味わいを磨く (ajiwai o migaku) - Polish the flavor
• 味わいを高める (ajiwai o takameru) - Elevate the flavor