Translation guide
The chrysanthemum is a flower deeply embedded in Japanese culture, appearing in art, the imperial crest, and seasonal traditions. This guide covers how to refer to the flower, its cultural significance, and related expressions.
Referring to the chrysanthemum plant or bloom in everyday contexts.
The standard word for chrysanthemum. Used in most contexts, from gardening to flower arrangements.
Chrysanthemums are blooming in the garden.
I arranged chrysanthemums in a vase.
Katakana form, often used in botanical or scientific contexts, or for emphasis.
Discussing the chrysanthemum as a symbol of Japan, the imperial family, or in traditional arts.
The Imperial Chrysanthemum Crest, a 16-petal chrysanthemum used as the symbol of the Japanese emperor and imperial family.
The chrysanthemum crest is the symbol of the Imperial Family.
Chrysanthemum dolls, life-sized figures adorned with chrysanthemum flowers, displayed at autumn festivals.
The Chrysanthemum Festival (September 9th), one of the five traditional seasonal festivals, also known as 重陽の節句.
Referring to edible chrysanthemum varieties or chrysanthemum-flavored items.
Edible chrysanthemum, specifically varieties grown for consumption, often used as a garnish or in salads.
Briefly boil edible chrysanthemums and serve them as ohitashi.
Garland chrysanthemum, a leafy green vegetable used in hot pot dishes (nabe) and salads. Not the same as the ornamental flower.
Chrysanthemum tea, made from dried chrysanthemum flowers.
Using 'chrysanthemum' in personal names or classical poetry.
菊 (kiku) usually refers to the ornamental flower, while 春菊 (shungiku) is the edible leafy green. Using 菊 when you mean the vegetable can cause confusion.
They were surprised when I put chrysanthemum flowers in the hot pot.
The chrysanthemum is a symbol of autumn and longevity. It appears on the 50-yen coin and the Imperial Seal. Mentioning 菊の御紋 can show knowledge of Japanese culture.
Chrysanthemums are plants of the Asteraceae family.
I went to see a chrysanthemum doll exhibition.
There is a custom of drinking chrysanthemum sake on the Chrysanthemum Festival.
すき焼きに春菊を入れます。
I put garland chrysanthemum in sukiyaki.
Chrysanthemum tea is said to be good for eye strain.
The scent of chrysanthemums evokes autumn.