(2 entries)
あじ
JLPT:N4
Frequency:
1

The flavor or taste of food or drink; the sensory impression such as sweet, salty, sour, etc.

Noun

Examples

このスープは味が濃すぎる。

This soup's flavor is too strong.

この料理の味をもっと引き出すために、塩を少し足した。

I added a little salt to bring out the flavor of this dish.

緑茶は渋みと甘味の両方の味がある。

Green tea has both an astringent and a sweet taste.

そのワイン、自分にはちょっと渋い味がする。

That wine tastes a bit astringent to me.

2

A distinct charm or appeal; the unique character or atmosphere something or someone has.

Noun

Examples

この古い喫茶店には独特の味がある。

This old café has a unique charm.

彼の絵には素朴な味があって好きだ。

I like his paintings; they have a simple, appealing quality.

古い家具が部屋に良い味を出している。

The old furniture gives the room a nice atmosphere.

3

The feeling or savor derived from an experience (for example, the taste of victory); the emotional impression from having experienced something.

Noun

Examples

初めて優勝したときの味は忘れられない。

I will never forget the taste of my first victory.

長年の努力の味をようやく知った。

I finally tasted the fruits of years of effort.

留学してみて初めて、旅の味が分かった。

Only after studying abroad did I truly understand the flavor of travel.

4

Often used in the form '味な', meaning clever, chic, or having a tasteful twist; a somewhat stylistic/old-fashioned compliment.

Na-Adjective

Examples

彼は味な計らいをしてくれた。

He made a clever/suited arrangement (a tasteful gesture).

味な男だね、彼は。

He's a charming/clever man, isn't he?

5

In go and shogi, 'aji' refers to latent potential in a position that can be exploited later (a lingering tactical possibility).

NounGo (Game)Shogi

Examples

その手にはまだ味があると言われている。

That move is said to still have aji (future potential).

味消しの手で相手の攻めを封じた。

He used a 'aji-keshi' move to nullify the opponent's potential attack.

Word Relationships