Japanese word

相性

Pronunciation

Romajiaishō

Meaning

  • nounchemistry

Example

私たちは相性がいいです。watashi ta chi wa ai shō ga i i de su

We have good chemistry.

Illustration for 相性 (chemistry)

More examples

この料理は白ワインと相性がいいです。ko no ryō ri wa shiro wa i n to ai shō ga i i de su

This dish goes well with white wine.

Core concept

Expresses the sense of a natural match in which people or things interact smoothly.

Common phrases

  • 相性がいいai shō ga i i

    have good chemistry

  • 相性が悪いai shō ga waru i

    have bad chemistry

  • 相性を確かめるai shō o tashi ka me ru

    check compatibility

Similar words

調和chōwa: A pleasing balance that lets people or things exist or function well together.
波長hachō: A shared way of thinking or feeling that helps people connect smoothly.

Definition in Japanese

人や物の性質や組み合わせが互いに合い、うまく関わり合えること。hito ya mono no sei shitsu ya ku mi a wa se ga taga i ni a i u ma ku kaka wa ri a e ru ko to

Word origin

相性 (aishō) is formed from 相 (ai, "mutual") and 性 (shō, "nature or disposition"), giving the sense of mutual compatibility.

Usage tips

  • The word extends beyond romance because Japanese speakers also use 相性 (aishō) for friends, coworkers, teams, and tools that function well together.

Other meanings

  • compatibilitynoun

Word lists with this word