Translation guide
Describes the sharp, unpleasant taste found in foods like black coffee, dark chocolate, or certain vegetables. In Japanese, the core word is 苦味 (にがみ), but expressions vary by context.
Referring to the basic taste sensation of bitterness, as in food or drink.
The standard noun for 'bitter taste'. Used in both everyday and technical contexts.
This coffee has a strong bitter taste.
I added sugar to reduce the bitterness.
The i-adjective meaning 'bitter'. Used to describe the taste directly.
This medicine is very bitter.
Alternative kanji for 苦味, same reading and meaning. Slightly more common in some contexts, but interchangeable.
I don't like the bitter taste of bitter melon.
Describing a lingering bitter sensation after eating or drinking.
Describing bitterness as a desirable or characteristic flavor component, often in gourmet contexts.
Referring to the natural bitterness in certain vegetables, often considered healthy or an acquired taste.
Describing an unpleasant bitter taste caused by overcooking, burning, or food going bad.
English sometimes uses 'bitter' loosely for strong flavors, but Japanese distinguishes 苦い (bitter) from 辛い (からい, spicy/hot). Use 苦い only for actual bitterness.
If you want to say you dislike bitter tastes, you can use 苦手 (にがて), which means 'not good with'. For example: 苦いものが苦手です (I don't like bitter things). Note the different kanji: 苦い (bitter) vs. 苦手 (dislike).
The bitter taste lingers even after drinking.
I like bitter chocolate.
This vegetable has a slightly bitter taste.
この山菜はえぐみが強い。
These wild greens have a strong acrid taste.