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).
このパンの柔らかさが好きです。
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.
このタオルはとても柔らかい。
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.
このケーキはふわふわだ。
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.
彼女の優しさに感動した。
I was touched by her gentleness.
The adjective meaning gentle, kind, or tender. Often more natural than the noun form.
彼はとても優しい人だ。
He is a very gentle person.
A more formal or literary term for gentleness or mildness of character. Not commonly used in everyday speech.
彼の柔和さが周囲を和ませる。
His gentleness puts everyone at ease.
Describing a sound that is quiet and gentle, or light that is not harsh.
Can also be used for softness of sound or light, though often the adjective form is preferred.
この照明の柔らかさが落ち着く。
The softness of this lighting is calming.
Adjective for soft light or sound. Use this to describe something as soft directly.
Referring to water that is not hard, i.e., low in calcium and magnesium.
The technical term for soft water. Used in contexts like water quality or laundry.
日本は軟水の地域が多い。
Japan has many areas with soft water.
Literally 'low hardness', used to describe soft water in a more explanatory way.
この水は硬度が低いので、肌に優しい。
This water is soft, so it's gentle on the skin.
Describing a market or economy that is weak or sluggish.
A financial term meaning bearish or weak market tone. Used in stock market reports.
今日の株式市場は軟調だった。
The stock market was soft today.
Meaning 'weakish' or 'tending downward', often used for markets or prices.
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.
柔らかい光が部屋を包んでいる。
Soft light fills the room.
ドルは対円で弱含みだ。
The dollar is soft against the yen.