柔らか
Meanings
1
Describes physical softness, tenderness, or pliability of objects, food, or materials.
This bread is very soft and fluffy.
Simmer until the meat becomes tender.
2
Used for non-physical qualities: soft colors, gentle light, mild demeanor, or subdued voice.
She began to speak in a gentle tone.
This room is decorated in soft colors.
3
Describes a flexible, easygoing, or informal approach, often used for thinking, rules, or atmosphere.
He has a flexible way of thinking.
The meeting proceeded in a relaxed atmosphere.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉が柔らかだfor a thing (food, material) to be soft or tender
This steak is very tender.
- 柔らかな〈物〉a soft, gentle (color, tone, atmosphere)
She's wearing clothes in soft colors.
- 頭が柔らかだto be flexible-minded or open to new ideas
He's flexible-minded, so he quickly accepts new ideas.
Expressions
- 柔らかな光soft light; gentle light