Japanese word

味噌

Pronunciation

Romajimiso

Meaning

  • nounmiso

Example

この味噌は甘いです。ko no mi so wa ama i de su

This miso is sweet.

Illustration for 味噌 (miso)

More examples

この料理には味噌を少し使います。ko no ryō ri ni wa mi so o suko shi tsuka i ma su

I use a little miso in this dish.

Core concept

Describes a thick, fermented paste that adds a deep salty flavor to food and can be made from soybeans, rice, or barley.

Common phrases

  • 味噌汁mi so shiru

    miso soup

  • 味噌を買うmi so o ka u

    buy miso

Definition in Japanese

大豆や穀物を発酵させて作る、塩味とうま味のあるペースト状の調味料。dai zu ya koku motsu o hak kō sa se te tsuku ru shio aji to u ma mi no a ru pē su to jō no chō mi ryō

Word origin

The Japanese word 味噌 (miso) is conventionally written with 味 (mi, "taste") and 噌 (so), while its deeper origin remains uncertain.

Usage tips

  • English speakers often meet 味噌 (miso) in the phrase miso soup, but miso can also name the seasoning in combinations such as miso dressing.

Word lists with this word