Translation guide
The quality of being soft in texture, gentleness in character, or lack of harshness. Japanese expresses this through various adjectives and nouns depending on the context.
Describing something that is soft to the touch, like a pillow, fabric, or food.
The most common noun for physical softness. Derived from the adjective 柔らかい (やわらかい).
I like the softness of this bread.
The adjective form, often more natural than the noun in Japanese. Use this to describe something as soft.
This towel is very soft.
Onomatopoeic word for fluffy softness, like a cloud or a soft blanket. Often used as a な-adjective or adverb.
This cake is light and fluffy.
Describing a person's gentle, kind, or mild nature.
The noun for gentleness or kindness. This is the most natural way to express softness in a person's character.
I was touched by her gentleness.
The adjective meaning gentle, kind, or tender. Often more natural than the noun form.
A more formal or literary term for gentleness or mildness of character. Not commonly used in everyday speech.
His gentleness puts everyone at ease.
Describing a sound that is quiet and gentle, or light that is not harsh.
Referring to water that is not hard, i.e., low in calcium and magnesium.
Describing a market or economy that is weak or sluggish.
When describing a person's gentle nature, do not use 柔らかさ (yawarakasa). Instead, use 優しさ (yasashisa) or the adjective 優しい (yasashii). Using 柔らかい for a person can imply physical softness or weakness, not kindness.
彼はとても優しい人だ。
He is a very gentle person.
Soft light fills the room.
This water is soft, so it's gentle on the skin.
ドルは対円で弱含みだ。
The dollar is soft against the yen.