香り — meaning in English: fragrance

kaori · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for smell

経験

keiken

エラー

erā

葬儀

sōgi

アクティビティ

akutibiti

香り

kaori

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 香り (kaori) when discussing scents related to nature, such as flowers or the ocean, and in contexts like perfumery or culinary experiences. For example, one might remark on the 香り of cherry blossoms during hanami (flower viewing) or describe the 香り of freshly brewed green tea at a tea ceremony.

Synonyms & nuances

香り (kaori) specifically refers to pleasant and fragrant scents, while 匂い (nioi) can denote any smell, including unpleasant ones. You would choose 香り when you want to evoke a sense of beauty and enjoyment, as in discussing the sweet 香り of flowers.

Culture

The word 香り (kaori) has roots in the ancient Japanese appreciation for nature, reflecting the culture's deep connection to the environment. Interestingly, the practice of scent appreciation is closely linked to traditional Japanese arts, such as incense ceremonies (香道, koudou), where various fragrances are enjoyed and distinguished.

FAQ

Q.What are some examples of 香り in sentences?

You could say, 'The 香り of blooming jasmine filled the air' or 'I love the 香り of fresh bread baking.' These examples illustrate how the word is used to express pleasant scents.

Q.How do you use 香り in everyday conversation?

香り can be used casually when talking about your favorite scents in perfumes, foods, or nature. For instance, 'I enjoy the 香り of sandalwood incense' is a common way to express appreciation for a specific fragrance.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 香り?

A common mistake is using 香り when referring to unpleasant odors; instead, use 匂い (nioi) for those cases. Remember, 香り is reserved for delightful and aromatic scents.

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Japanese 2000