Translation and Meaning of: 匂う - niou

The Japanese word 匂う [におう] is a term rich in meaning and everyday use, often associated with olfactory sensations and subtle perceptions. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical applications, as well as understand how it is perceived in Japanese culture. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about this expression, discover here everything you need to know.

Meaning and usage of 匂う

匂う is a Japanese verb that can be translated as "to smell," "to exude fragrance," or even "to suggest" something indirectly. Unlike 臭う [におう], which carries a negative connotation (like a bad smell), 匂う generally refers to pleasant or subtle fragrances. For example, flowers, perfumes, and even the atmosphere of a place can "におう."

In addition to its literal meaning, this word can also express an impression or a hint of something. Phrases like "彼の言葉には真実が匂っていた" (His words exuded truth) show how the term goes beyond smell, conveying emotional or intuitive nuances.

Origin and writing of the kanji 匂

The kanji 匂 is composed of the radical 勹 (to wrap) and 口 (mouth), suggesting something that spreads in the air, like a fragrance. Although it is not one of the oldest characters, its structure well reflects the idea of something that permeates the environment. Interestingly, this kanji is considered one of the "jōyō kanji" (commonly used), but its frequency of use is moderate in daily life.

It is worth noting that, in modern writing, 匂う sometimes appears in hiragana (におう), especially when the author wants to convey a softer or more poetic feeling. This flexibility makes the word versatile in both colloquial language and literary texts.

Tips to memorize and use 匂う

An effective way to remember 匂う is to associate it with memorable sensory experiences, such as the smell of fresh coffee or cherry blossoms. This emotional connection helps to differentiate it from similar terms like 臭う (bad smell) or 香る [かおる] (aromatic, but more formal).

Another tip is to practice with everyday sentences, such as "この花はいい匂いがする" (This flower has a nice smell). Repeating in real contexts consolidates learning. If you use apps like Anki, including auditory examples can further reinforce memorization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 匂う

• 匂う intransitive verb
• 匂った past
• 匂っている Present continuous
• 匂わない Negative
• 匂わせる Causative

Synonyms and similar words

• 匂いがする (nioi ga suru) - To have a scent or aroma; used in general.
• 香る (kaoru) - Exude a pleasant aroma; often used for supplements or flowers.
• 匂わせる (niowaseru) - Implies or suggests a smell; it can have a connotation of a subtle suggestion.
• 臭う (niau) - To emit a strong or unpleasant smell; negative connotation.
• 香り立つ (kaoritatsu) - Awakening or bursting forth of an aroma; generally used to describe the unveiling of a perfume or scent.

匂う

Romaji: niou
Kana: におう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: be fragrant; to smell; bad smell; shine; be brilliant

Meaning in English: to be fragrant;to smell;to stink;to glow;to be bright

Definition: There is a characteristic smell emanating from things or places.

Example Sentences - (匂う) niou

See below some example sentences:

この花はとても良い香りが匂う。

Kono hana wa totemo yoi kaori ga niou

This flower has a very pleasant smell.

This flower smells very well.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 花 - noun meaning "flower"
• は - topic particle indicating the subject of the sentence, in this case "this flower"
• とても - adverb meaning "very"
• 良い - adjective meaning "good"
• 香り - noun meaning "fragrance" or "smell"
• が - subject particle indicating the subject of the sentence, in this case "the smell"
• 匂う - verb meaning "to smell"