Translation guide
Describes something containing a lot of fat, especially food, or refers to fatty tissue in the body. The most common Japanese equivalent is 脂っこい (aburakkōi) for greasy, oily foods. For body tissue, use 脂肪 (shibō) in compounds.
Describing food that is heavy, oily, or contains a lot of fat, often with a negative connotation of being too rich.
fatty meat · fatty food · too fatty
The most common and natural way to describe food that is greasy, oily, or fatty. Often used for fried foods, fatty meats, or dishes that feel heavy.
This ramen is too fatty/greasy.
I don't like greasy food.
Similar to 脂っこい, but can also mean 'oily' in texture or appearance. Slightly less common for food richness.
This tempura is oily and sits heavy on the stomach.
Describes rich, heavy, thick, or fatty food, often positively for ramen or stews. Can be used as an adverb or adjective.
I like rich, fatty tonkotsu ramen.
Literally 'has a lot of fat/oil'. A straightforward description, often used for meat or food composition.
This meat is fatty, isn't it?
Describing food or substances that are high in fat content, without the negative 'greasy' nuance. Often used in nutritional or descriptive contexts.
Referring to adipose tissue in the body, often in medical or biological contexts.
Referring to fatty acids, a component of fats.
The standard term for 'fatty acid'. Used in scientific contexts.
Omega-3 fatty acids are good for you.
脂っこい (aburakkōi) is the most common word for 'greasy/fatty' food and carries a negative nuance of being too rich. 油っぽい (aburappōi) can also mean 'oily' in texture or appearance, and is sometimes used for skin or non-food items. For food, 脂っこい is preferred.
I avoid greasy food.
This cosmetic feels oily.
脂っこい only describes food. To talk about body fat or fatty tissue, use 脂肪 (shibō) or related terms. Saying 脂っこい人 would be unnatural and potentially rude.
I try to avoid fatty foods.
This steak is too fatty for me.
The fatty tissue is inflamed.