Translation and Meaning of: 味覚 - mikaku

The word 「味覚」 (mikaku) is a Japanese expression that refers to the sense of taste, or the ability to perceive flavors. This perception is a complex sensory experience that involves the detection of different taste qualities, such as sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. The kanji 「味」 means "flavor," while 「覚」 means "perception" or "memory," together forming the concept of "taste perception."

Etymologically, the kanji 「味」 (mi) is composed of the radical for "mouth" 「口」 and the radical for "not" 「未」 indicating something that cannot be fully described without being experienced by the mouth. Meanwhile, the kanji 「覚」 (kaku) involves the meaning of "to wake up" or "to remember," having the radical for "eye" 「見」 combined with the kanji for "to see" 「覺」. These components together reinforce the idea of a sensoriality that is discovered and remembered.

In Japanese culture, the 「味覚」 is highly valued, not just as a sense, but as an essential part of the culinary experience and the appreciation of gastronomy. With a rich tradition of unique flavors, such as umami, which stands out in Japanese cuisine, the 「味覚」 is also a popular topic in discussions about food and health. The development of this sensitivity allows not only for the appreciation of complex dishes but also for the distinction between the freshness of ingredients and the chefs' skill in balancing flavors.

In the contemporary context, the importance of 「味覚」 transcends food. It is considered a crucial aspect of a fulfilling and healthy life experience. With the growing interest in mindfulness and conscious eating, many people are rediscovering the value of fully savoring each meal, enhancing the pleasure of eating and ensuring a deeper connection with their own bodies and the food cultures around the world.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 味わい (ajiwai) - Quality or perceived flavor of a food or beverage.
• 味 (aji) - General flavor or taste of something.
• 風味 (fuumi) - Atmosphere or characteristic aroma of something, usually related to flavor.
• 味わう力 (ajiwau chikara) - The ability to appreciate or perceive flavors.
• 味覚感覚 (mikaku kankaku) - Sense related to the perception of flavors.
• 味覚センサー (mikaku sensa) - Sensors that detect flavors.
• 味覚神経 (mikaku shinkei) - Neurology related to taste perception.
• 味覚受容体 (mikaku shuyōtai) - Receptors that capture taste stimuli.
• 味覚評価 (mikaku hyōka) - Evaluation or analysis of flavors.
• 味覚異常 (mikaku ijō) - Anomalies or disturbances in the perception of tastes.
• 味覚研究 (mikaku kenkyū) - Studies or research on the sense of taste.
• 味覚テスト (mikaku tesuto) - Tests conducted to evaluate taste perception.
• 味覚障害 (mikaku shōgai) - Deficiencies or problems related to the sense of taste.
• 味覚変化 (mikaku henka) - Changes in taste perception over time.
• 味覚センター (mikaku sentā) - Neural center responsible for the perception of flavors.

味覚

Romaji: mikaku
Kana: みかく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: I like; palate; sense of taste

Meaning in English: taste;palate;sense of taste

Definition: The ability to taste food and drinks.

Example Sentences - (味覚) mikaku

See below some example sentences:

味覚は人それぞれです。

Ajikan wa hito sorezore desu

Taste varies from person to person.

The taste is different for everyone.

• 味覚 - It means "palate" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle in Japanese, indicating that the subject of the sentence is the palate.
• 人 - means "person" in Japanese.
• それぞれ - means "each" or "individually" in Japanese.
• です - verb "to be" in Japanese, indicating that the sentence is a statement.