Translation guide
In Japanese, slurping is a common and often acceptable way to eat noodles and drink hot liquids. This guide covers how to describe the sound and action of slurping, as well as cultural notes.
Describing the audible sound made when slurping noodles or soup.
The most common onomatopoeia for slurping noodles or soup. It can be used as an adverb or a suru-verb.
彼はラーメンをズルズルとすすった。
He slurped his ramen noisily.
A variant of ズルズル, often used for continuous, loud slurping, especially of soup.
スープをズーズーと飲むのはやめてください。
Please stop slurping your soup loudly.
Expressing the act of eating or drinking with a slurping sound.
The standard verb meaning 'to slurp' or 'to sip noisily'. Used for noodles, soup, tea, etc.
音を立ててそばをすするのは日本では普通です。
Slurping soba noisily is normal in Japan.
Noun phrase meaning 'slurping sound'.
すする音が気になる人もいます。
Some people are bothered by slurping sounds.
Explaining that slurping is not rude in Japan when eating noodles.
In Japan, slurping noodles is considered normal and can show appreciation. It also helps cool the noodles and enhances flavor. However, slurping soup or other foods may still be considered impolite in formal settings.
日本では、麺類をすするのはマナー違反ではありません。
In Japan, slurping noodles is not a breach of etiquette.
While すする implies audible slurping, 飲む (のむ) is the general verb for drinking. To specify quiet sipping, you can use 静かに飲む (しずかにのむ). In formal situations, avoid loud slurping even with noodles.
静かに飲んでください。
Please drink quietly.