ほやほや
Meanings
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective
hot and fresh; steaming; just cooked
Describes food that is freshly made and still hot, often with a sense of appealing warmth. Used with の or な.
Freshly baked, hot bread is the best.
I ate steaming gyoza straight from the pan.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective
brand-new; freshly minted; just out of
Used for people or things that are very new in a role or state, such as a recent graduate or newlywed. Often carries a warm, slightly amused tone.
He's a brand-new employee fresh out of university.
A newlywed couple, still fresh and dewy, moved in next door.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉がほやほうだsomething is hot and fresh (just made)
The bread is fresh out of the oven and still warm.
- 〈事〉したてのほやほやjust having done something (e.g. newlywed, newly graduated)
They're a newly married, still-glowing couple.
- 〈人〉はほやほやの〈人〉だsomeone who is brand-new in a role (e.g. a fresh graduate)
He's a fresh-out-of-college new employee.