I'm learning
日本語
口 — meaning in English: mouth
kuchi · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
mouth
試み
kokoromi
肩
kata
パス
pasu
口
kuchi
シャワー
shawā
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Japanese for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 口 (kuchi) in a variety of everyday contexts, such as discussing eating, speaking, or even expressing emotions. For instance, you might hear someone say '口がすごくうまい' (kuchi ga sugoku umai) to describe a delicious meal, or '口に出す' (kuchi ni dasu) when talking about voicing an opinion.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 口 (kuchi) is 唇 (kuchibiru), which specifically means 'lips'. While 口 refers to the whole mouth, including the lips and teeth, you would choose 口 when discussing speech or eating, and 唇 when referring more specifically to the outer part of the mouth.
Culture
The character 口 (kuchi) has deep roots in the Japanese language and is often associated with expression and communication. In fact, its use extends beyond just the physical mouth; it can symbolize the act of speaking or conveying thoughts. Interestingly, in traditional Japanese culture, the mouth also represents the entrance to a person's inner self, hence the saying '言わぬが花' (iwanu ga hana), meaning 'not saying is a flower', reflecting the value placed on what is left unspoken.
FAQ
