Translation guide
The word 'spice' can refer to a seasoning, something that adds excitement, or spicy heat. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a substance used to flavor food, such as pepper, cinnamon, or cumin.
The most common and direct loanword for 'spice' in the culinary sense. Used for both individual spices and spice blends.
Many spices are used in this curry.
A more formal or technical term for spices, often seen on ingredient labels or in cooking contexts.
Add spices to enhance the flavor.
Refers to condiments or garnishes with a strong flavor, like wasabi, ginger, or shichimi, often served with Japanese dishes. Not a direct translation of 'spice' but related.
I eat udon with condiments on top.
Referring to something that adds excitement, variety, or interest to life, a story, or an event.
Used metaphorically, just like in English, to mean something that adds excitement or interest.
Travel is the spice of life.
Literally 'to give stimulation', used to describe adding excitement or a thrill.
Literally 'to add color', used figuratively to mean adding variety or interest to something.
Referring to the sensation of heat from chili peppers or other pungent foods.
The noun for 'spiciness' or 'heat'. Use this when talking about the level of spiciness.
The spice level of this dish is just right.
A loanword from 'spicy' with the nominalizer 'sa', used to describe spiciness, often in a trendy or casual context.
The spiciness of this curry is addictive.
A more precise phrase meaning 'the pungency of spices', used in formal or descriptive contexts.
In English, 'spice' is a noun, while 'spicy' is an adjective. In Japanese, スパイス is a noun. To say something is spicy, use 辛い (からい) or スパイシー (すぱいしー).
This curry is spicy.
スパイス is the everyday word for spices, while 香辛料 is more formal and often used in written contexts like ingredient lists. In conversation, スパイス is preferred.
His jokes spiced up the meeting.
Her presence spiced up the party.
The spice heat is too strong.