Translation guide
The English word 'licorice' refers to a plant, its root, a flavor, and a type of candy. In Japanese, the plant and flavor are usually called 甘草 (kanzō), while the candy is often referred to as リコリス (rikorisu) or 甘草飴 (kanzōame).
licorice (plant/flavor)
licorice (candy)
Often used for Western-style licorice candy.
Referring to the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) or its root used for flavoring or herbal medicine.
The standard Japanese term for the licorice plant and its root. Used in botanical, culinary, and medicinal contexts.
Licorice root is often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Loanword from English, used in some contexts, especially when referring to the plant in a Western or botanical context. Less common than 甘草.
Describing the distinct sweet, slightly bitter flavor of licorice.
Referring to licorice candy, such as twists, ropes, or allsorts.
The most common term for licorice candy in Japan, especially for Western-style licorice. Often written in katakana.
Literally 'licorice candy'. Used for traditional Japanese licorice candies or as a general term. Less common than リコリス for Western candies.
A more formal or written term for licorice confectionery.
Licorice candies are popular in Scandinavia.
Use 甘草 (kanzō) for the plant, root, or traditional medicinal contexts. Use リコリス (rikorisu) for the candy, especially Western varieties. In flavor descriptions, both 甘草味 and リコリス味 are used, but 甘草味 is more traditional.
This cough medicine contains licorice.
I'm not really a fan of licorice, you know.
I love the taste of licorice.
Do you have any licorice candy?
リコリスはマメ科の植物です。
Licorice is a plant in the legume family.
Dutch licorice is very salty.
Licorice candy is said to be good for the throat.