Translation guide
The most common and natural way to say something tastes good in Japanese is おいしい (oishii). However, Japanese has many nuanced expressions for deliciousness depending on context, formality, and the type of food.
Expressing that food or drink tastes good in everyday conversation.
The standard, all-purpose word for 'delicious'. Safe for most situations.
This ramen is delicious!
The cake I ate yesterday was very delicious.
Casual, often used by men. Can sound rough or masculine. Also means 'skillful', but context makes it clear.
This sushi is so good!
Literary or formal word for 'delicious', often used in writing or refined contexts.
The food at this restaurant is truly delicious.
Expressing deliciousness in polite or formal settings, such as when speaking to superiors or in business contexts.
Polite form of おいしい. Use this in formal situations or with people you don't know well.
This tea is very delicious.
Very formal, humble expression. Rarely used in modern speech, mostly in traditional settings or by older speakers.
The food is delicious (very formal).
Going beyond 'delicious' to describe why something tastes good, such as texture, richness, or freshness.
Sweet. Use for desserts, fruits, or sweet sauces.
These strawberries are sweet and delicious.
Salty (often in a good way, like savory snacks). Can also mean 'too salty' depending on context.
Rich, full-bodied flavor. Often used for broths, stews, or coffee.
This miso soup has a rich flavor and is delicious.
Light, refreshing taste. Good for salads, citrus, or light soups.
This salad is light and delicious.
Juicy. Borrowed from English, commonly used for meat, fruit, etc.
Commenting on food that appears appetizing before tasting.
Emphasizing that something is exceptionally delicious.
Very delicious. Simple and common intensifier.
This pizza is very delicious.
Extremely delicious. More casual than とても.
This ramen is super delicious!
The best, most delicious. 最高 means 'the best'.
This chocolate cake is the most delicious.
Exquisite, superb. Often used in reviews or food writing.
Describing a pleasant food aroma.
Expressing that food tastes good because it reminds you of home or childhood.
In English, 'delicious' can sometimes be used metaphorically (e.g., 'delicious irony'). In Japanese, おいしい is almost exclusively for food and drink. Do not use it for abstract concepts.
おいしい is neutral and can be used by anyone. うまい is more casual and often masculine. Women may use うまい, but it can sound rough. In formal situations, stick to おいしいです.
When you've finished eating, use the past tense おいしかった to express that it was delicious. This is very common after a meal.
Thank you for the meal. It was delicious.
This soup is delicious.
That looks delicious!
The sushi here is really good.
このポテトチップスはしょっぱくてやめられない。
These potato chips are so salty and addictive.
このハンバーグはジューシーでおいしい。
This hamburger steak is juicy and delicious.
この店の刺身は絶品だ。
The sashimi at this restaurant is exquisite.