I'm learning
한국어
맛 — meaning in English: flavor
mas · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
taste
태도
taedo
화합물
hwahabmul
맛
mas
유리
yuli
인식
insig
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Korean for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 맛 (mas) in everyday conversations about food, especially when discussing the taste of a dish at a restaurant or during a meal with family and friends. You might hear someone say, '이 음식의 맛이 어때요?' (How is the flavor of this food?) when asking for a review of a dish.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 맛 (mas) is 향 (hyang), which refers more to aroma than flavor. When discussing the taste sensations of food, 맛 is the preferred term, whereas 향 might be used when describing the smell of an ingredient or dish. Choosing 맛 over 향 emphasizes the tasting experience rather than just the scent.
Culture
The word 맛 (mas) is deeply embedded in Korean culture, reflecting the importance of food in social gatherings. Interestingly, Korean cuisine is often characterized by its bold flavors, and the concept of 맛 has evolved to encompass not just taste, but also the overall experience of enjoying food, including aroma and texture. Many traditional dishes are designed to create a harmonious balance of flavors that delight the palate.
FAQ
