炭水化物
炭水化物 30초 만에
- 炭水化物 (Tansui-kabutsu) means 'carbohydrate' in Japanese, used in both everyday health talk and scientific contexts.
- It is a compound of kanji meaning carbon (炭), water (水), and matter (化物).
- In Japan, it primarily refers to rice, bread, and noodles, the pillars of the national diet.
- On nutrition labels, it is the sum of sugars (糖質) and dietary fiber (食物繊維).
The Japanese word 炭水化物 (たんすいかぶつ - Tansui-kabutsu) is the technical and everyday term for 'carbohydrates.' Linguistically, it is a compound noun constructed from four kanji characters that perfectly describe its chemical composition. 炭 (tan) means charcoal or carbon, 水 (sui) means water, 化 (ka) means change or transformation, and 物 (butsu) means thing or matter. Together, they literally translate to 'carbon-water-transformed-matter,' which mirrors the English etymology of 'carbohydrate' (hydrated carbon). In Japan, a country where white rice is the historical and cultural cornerstone of almost every meal, this word carries significant weight in discussions ranging from traditional cooking to modern health fads.
- Scientific Definition
- A large group of organic compounds occurring in foods and living tissues and including sugars, starch, and cellulose. They contain hydrogen and oxygen in the same ratio as water (2:1) and typically can be broken down to release energy in the animal body.
In daily life, you will encounter this word most frequently in three contexts: nutrition labels, healthcare settings, and diet culture. When Japanese people talk about 'carbs' in a casual sense—like saying 'I'm cutting back on carbs'—they might use the technical term 炭水化物, or they might use the more specific term 糖質 (toushitsu), which refers to the sugar/starch component of carbohydrates excluding fiber. However, 炭水化物 remains the 'umbrella' term used in formal education and medical advice. It is the word a doctor uses when explaining a diabetic diet or what a trainer mentions when discussing glycogen stores for an athlete.
健康のために、夜は炭水化物を控えるようにしています。
(For my health, I try to cut back on carbohydrates at night.)
The cultural nuance of 炭水化物 in Japan is fascinating because of the concept of 'shushoku' (主食), or staple food. In a traditional Japanese meal structure (ichiju-sansai), rice is the central pillar. Therefore, discussing 炭水化物 often feels like discussing the very foundation of Japanese identity. When someone says they are 'avoiding 炭水化物,' they are usually specifically referring to rice, bread, and noodles (the 'big three' of Japanese carbs). In recent years, the 'low-carb' trend (locally known as 'toushitsu-seigen') has made this word a household name, appearing on everything from beer cans to convenience store salads.
- Dietary Context
- Used when calculating macros (PFC balance: Protein, Fat, Carbohydrate). In Japan, the 'C' stands for 炭水化物.
マラソン大会の前日は、炭水化物をたくさん食べる「カーボローディング」が効果的です。
(The day before a marathon, 'carb-loading' by eating lots of carbohydrates is effective.)
Historically, the term was coined during the Meiji era when Japan was rapidly adopting Western scientific terminology. Scholars had to create new kanji combinations for chemical concepts. By combining 'carbon' and 'water,' they created a literal translation that remains unchanged today. This makes it a 'kango' (Sino-Japanese word), which gives it a slightly more academic or formal feel than the English word 'carbs,' though it is used by everyone from school children to the elderly.
- Grammatical Role
- It functions as a standard noun. It can be the subject, object, or part of a compound noun like 炭水化物抜き (carbohydrate-free).
このパンは炭水化物だけでなく、食物繊維も豊富です。
(This bread is rich not only in carbohydrates but also in dietary fiber.)
うどんとご飯を一緒に食べるのは、炭水化物の重ね食べと言われます。
(Eating udon and rice together is called 'double-stacking carbohydrates.')
In summary, 炭水化物 is a vital word for navigating the modern Japanese culinary and health landscape. Whether you are reading a label on a bottle of green tea, talking to a doctor about your blood sugar, or just discussing why you're skipping the ramen after a night of drinking, this word provides the necessary precision to discuss the fuels that power our bodies.
Using 炭水化物 in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as a noun and the common verbs associated with consumption and health. Because it is a multi-syllable technical term, it often appears in semi-formal to formal contexts, though it is perfectly natural in daily conversation about food. The most common verbs you will pair with it are 摂取する (sesshu suru - to intake/consume), 控える (hikaeru - to refrain from/cut back), and 抜く (nuku - to omit/remove).
- Verb Pairing: 摂取する (To Intake)
- Typically used in medical, fitness, or scientific contexts. '炭水化物を摂取する' sounds more professional than just 'eating' carbs.
運動後は、適切な量の炭水化物を摂取することが重要です。
(It is important to consume an appropriate amount of carbohydrates after exercising.)
When discussing diets, the phrase 炭水化物抜き (tansui-kabutsu nuki) is extremely common. This acts as a compound noun meaning 'carb-free' or 'carb-omitting.' You might see '炭水化物抜きダイエット' (carb-free diet) in magazines or on social media. Another common structure is using the particle 'は' to define what foods fall into this category, or 'に' to indicate what a food contains.
- Structure: [Food] + は + 炭水化物 + です
- A simple way to categorize food items. Useful for beginners (A1-A2 levels).
ご飯やパンは炭水化物の代表的な食べ物です。
(Rice and bread are representative carbohydrate foods.)
In more advanced usage (B2+), you will see 炭水化物 modified by adjectives like 過剰な (kajou na - excessive) or 不足している (fusoku shite iru - insufficient). This is common in health reports and news articles discussing the Japanese diet. Because the word is long, speakers often emphasize the 'Tan' and 'Ka' syllables to ensure clarity.
- Verb Pairing: 燃焼させる (To Burn)
- Used in the context of metabolism and exercise. '炭水化物をエネルギーとして燃焼させる' (Burning carbs as energy).
体内の炭水化物がなくなると、脂肪が燃え始めます。
(When the carbohydrates in the body are depleted, fat begins to burn.)
Another interesting usage is the 'overlapping' or 'stacking' of carbs, known as 炭水化物+炭水化物 (Tansui-kabutsu purasu tansui-kabutsu). This is a humorous or self-deprecating way to describe a meal that is very heavy on starch, such as a Ramen and Fried Rice set (Ra-cha setto). People might say, '今日は炭水化物祭りだ!' (Today is a carbohydrate festival!).
パスタとピザのセットは、炭水化物ばかりで太りそうです。
(A pasta and pizza set is nothing but carbohydrates; it seems like I'll gain weight.)
Finally, in academic or medical writing, you will see 炭水化物 used with the particle 'による' (due to/by means of) to describe physiological effects. For example, '炭水化物による血糖値の上昇' (The rise in blood sugar levels caused by carbohydrates). This highlights the word's versatility across different registers of Japanese, from the dinner table to the laboratory.
You will encounter 炭水化物 in a variety of real-world Japanese settings, ranging from the sterile environment of a hospital to the vibrant aisles of a 7-Eleven. Understanding these contexts helps you gauge the appropriate level of formality and the specific nuance intended by the speaker.
- Setting 1: Convenience Stores and Supermarkets
- Every packaged food item in Japan has a nutrition label (栄養成分表示 - eiyou seibun hyouji). You will always see 炭水化物 listed here, usually followed by a breakdown of 糖質 (sugar) and 食物繊維 (fiber).
ラベルを見ると、このお弁当は炭水化物が100グラムも入っている。
(Looking at the label, this bento has as much as 100 grams of carbohydrates.)
In these retail settings, you might also hear announcements or see posters for 'low-carb' products. While 'Lo-ka-bo' (ロカボ) is a popular marketing buzzword, the small print will always use the formal term 炭水化物 to comply with food labeling laws.
- Setting 2: TV Variety Shows and Health Programs
- Japanese television is obsessed with food and health. Programs like 'Gatten!' or morning 'wide shows' frequently discuss the 'correct' way to eat carbs—such as eating vegetables first (vege-first) to prevent a carb-induced blood sugar spike.
テレビで、冷えたご飯は炭水化物の吸収が遅くなると言っていました。
(On TV, they said that cold rice slows down the absorption of carbohydrates.)
In these programs, experts (doctors or nutritionists) will use 炭水化物 while the celebrities (talento) might react with simpler terms like 'gohan' (rice) or 'amaimono' (sweet things). This creates a linguistic bridge between the technical and the everyday.
- Setting 3: Gyms and Fitness Centers
- Personal trainers in Japan are very strict about 'PFC balance.' They will often ask clients to log their 炭水化物 intake in apps like MyFitnessPal or Japanese equivalents like 'Asuken.'
筋肉を大きくするためには、タンパク質だけでなく炭水化物も必要です。
(To make muscles larger, you need not only protein but also carbohydrates.)
Finally, you will hear this word at the dinner table. While families usually talk about 'rice' or 'noodles,' if the conversation turns to health or weight loss, the term 炭水化物 is the standard way to generalize. A mother might tell her child, '炭水化物ばかり食べないで、野菜も食べなさい' (Don't just eat carbs, eat your vegetables too). It serves as a gentle corrective term that sounds slightly more 'educational' than just saying 'bread' or 'rice.'
- Setting 4: Schools (Home Economics)
- In Japanese elementary and middle schools, students learn about the 'Three Group Food Guide.' 炭水化物 is categorized as the 'Yellow Group' (energy-giving foods).
家庭科の授業で、炭水化物の働きについて学びました。
(In home economics class, I learned about the function of carbohydrates.)
Whether you're listening to a podcast about longevity or just ordering a 'teishoku' (set meal) and deciding whether to get a large serving of rice, 炭水化物 is the keyword that defines the energy source of the Japanese diet.
For English speakers learning Japanese, the most common mistakes involving 炭水化物 are related to its distinction from similar words, its pronunciation, and its grammatical usage in casual speech. Because the word is long (seven moras), it can be a tongue-twister for beginners.
- Mistake 1: Confusing 炭水化物 with 糖質 (Toushitsu)
- This is the most common conceptual error. In English, we often use 'carbs' and 'sugar' interchangeably in diet talk. In Japanese, 炭水化物 (Carbohydrate) = 糖質 (Sugar/Starch) + 食物繊維 (Fiber). If you are talking about a keto diet, saying you are 'cutting 炭水化物' is technically correct but less precise than 'cutting 糖質.'
❌ 糖質制限をしているので、炭水化物を全く食べません。
(I'm on a sugar-restricted diet, so I don't eat carbs at all.) - Technically, fiber is a carb, and you should eat it!
A more accurate statement would be: '糖質制限をしているので、ご飯などの糖質が多い炭水化物を控えています' (I'm on a sugar-restricted diet, so I'm refraining from high-sugar carbohydrates like rice).
- Mistake 2: Pronunciation and Rhythm
- English speakers often struggle with the 'kabu' part of 'tansui-kabutsu.' There is a tendency to stress the 'ka' or 'bu,' but in Japanese, it should be relatively flat. Also, don't forget the 'tsu' at the end; it's not 'tansui-kabu.'
- Mistake 3: Over-using the word in casual settings
- While 炭水化物 is used, if you are just talking about being full from a big bowl of rice, saying '炭水化物が多すぎた' (There were too many carbs) can sound a bit like a textbook. Using specific food names or 'omoi' (heavy) is often more natural.
Natural: このラーメン、麺の量がすごくてお腹いっぱい。
(This ramen has so many noodles, I'm full.)
Textbook: このラーメンは炭水化物の含有量が多いですね。
(This ramen has a high carbohydrate content, doesn't it?)
Another mistake is the confusion between 炭水化物 and 脂肪 (shibou - fat). Some learners use 'carbs' when they mean 'fatty foods.' Remember: 炭水化物 is rice/bread/sugar, while 脂質 (shishitsu) or 脂肪 is oil/butter/meat fat.
- Mistake 4: Kanji Writing
- The kanji for 'ka' (化) is often confused with 'hi' (比) or other similar radicals. Also, ensure the 'tan' (炭) has the 'fire' (火) radical at the bottom, not the top.
❌ 湛水化物 (Wrong radical for 'tan')
✅ 炭水化物
By being aware of these distinctions—especially the difference between total carbs and sugars—you will sound much more knowledgeable when discussing health and food in Japanese.
To truly master the vocabulary surrounding 炭水化物, you need to know the related terms that Japanese speakers use to be more specific or more casual. Depending on whether you are in a hospital, a gym, or a restaurant, the 'best' word to use will change.
- 糖質 (Toushitsu) - Sugars/Starches
- This is the most common alternative. While 炭水化物 includes fiber, 糖質 is the part that affects blood sugar. In modern Japan, '糖質オフ' (sugar off/low sugar) is a much more common marketing term than '炭水化物オフ.'
最近は、糖質を抑えたビールが人気です。
(Recently, beer with reduced sugar is popular.)
If you are talking about dieting for weight loss, 糖質 is usually the word you want. If you are talking about general nutrition or biology, stick with 炭水化物.
- 主食 (Shushoku) - Staple Food
- This is a cultural term. It refers to the main carbohydrate source of a meal (rice, bread, noodles). In a restaurant, if you want to swap your rice for a salad, you are 'changing the shushoku.'
日本の主食は米ですが、最近はパンを食べる人も増えています。
(The staple food of Japan is rice, but recently the number of people who eat bread is increasing.)
Comparison Table:
| Word | Nuance | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 炭水化物 | Technical/Broad | Nutrition labels, Medical advice |
| 糖質 | Specific (Sugar/Starch) | Dieting, Weight loss, Keto |
| デンプン | Starch | Cooking (thickening sauces), Chemistry |
| 粉もの (Konamono) | Flour-based food | Casual talk about pizza, okonomiyaki |
- 糖類 (Tourui) - Sugars (Simple)
- Even more specific than 糖質. This refers to simple sugars like glucose or fructose. You see this on 'sugar-free' (糖類ゼロ) soda cans.
この飲料は糖類ゼロですが、甘味料が含まれています。
(This beverage has zero sugars, but it contains sweeteners.)
Understanding these distinctions allows you to navigate a Japanese menu or a conversation with a doctor with confidence. While 炭水化物 is the 'safe' word that covers everything, knowing when to use 糖質 or 主食 will make your Japanese sound more nuanced and natural.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The term literally describes the chemical formula C(n)H(2n)O(n), which looks like carbon joined with water molecules.
발음 가이드
- Stressing the 'ka' like in the English 'carbohydrate.'
- Dropping the 'u' in 'tsu' at the end.
- Pronouncing 'sui' as 'swee' instead of two distinct sounds 'su-i'.
- Confusing 'tansui' with 'tansun' (short).
- Saying 'tansui-kabut-su' with a long pause.
난이도
Kanji are common but the combination is long.
Writing 'tan' and 'butsu' correctly requires practice.
A long word, but follows standard phonetic rules.
Easily recognizable once you know the 'tansui' part.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Noun + 抜き (nuki)
炭水化物抜き (Without carbs)
Noun + 中心 (chuushin)
炭水化物中心の生活 (A carb-centered life)
Verb stem + すぎ (sugi)
炭水化物の摂りすぎ (Over-intake of carbs)
Noun + 控えめ (hikaeme)
炭水化物控えめ (Low carb / modest carb)
Noun + 豊富 (houfu)
炭水化物が豊富 (Rich in carbs)
수준별 예문
ごはんは炭水化物です。
Rice is a carbohydrate.
A is B structure (Noun + wa + Noun + desu).
パンも炭水化物です。
Bread is also a carbohydrate.
Using 'mo' for 'also'.
炭水化物は体(からだ)にいいです。
Carbohydrates are good for the body.
Noun + wa + Noun + ni + ii (Good for...).
私は炭水化物が好きです。
I like carbohydrates.
Subject + wa + Object + ga + suki desu.
これは炭水化物ですか?
Is this a carbohydrate?
Question form using 'ka'.
炭水化物を食べます。
I eat carbohydrates.
Direct object marker 'o'.
うどんは炭水化物ですか?
Are udon noodles carbohydrates?
Categorizing specific foods.
炭水化物はエネルギーになります。
Carbohydrates become energy.
Noun + ni + narimasu (To become).
炭水化物を食べすぎました。
I ate too many carbohydrates.
Verb stem + sugiru (To do too much).
夜は炭水化物を食べないようにしています。
I try not to eat carbohydrates at night.
Verb (negative) + you ni shite iru (Trying not to).
このお菓子は炭水化物が多いです。
This snack has many carbohydrates.
Subject + ga + oi (There are many...).
健康のために炭水化物を減らします。
I will reduce carbohydrates for my health.
Noun + no tame ni (For the sake of).
炭水化物とタンパク質を食べましょう。
Let's eat carbohydrates and protein.
Volitional form 'mashou' for suggestions.
どの食べ物に炭水化物が入っていますか?
Which foods contain carbohydrates?
Noun + ni + Noun + ga + haitte iru (To be contained in).
炭水化物は脳(のう)に必要です。
Carbohydrates are necessary for the brain.
Noun + ni + hitsuyou (Necessary for).
ダイエット中(ちゅう)なので、炭水化物を控(ひか)えています。
Since I'm on a diet, I'm refraining from carbohydrates.
Noun + chuu (In the middle of) + node (because).
炭水化物を抜くダイエットは人気がありますが、注意が必要です。
Carb-omitting diets are popular, but caution is necessary.
Noun + nuku (omitting) + Noun.
運動の前に炭水化物を摂ると、パフォーマンスが上がります。
If you take in carbohydrates before exercise, your performance improves.
Verb (dictionary form) + to (if/when).
炭水化物は、糖質と食物繊維に分けられます。
Carbohydrates are divided into sugars and dietary fiber.
Passive form 'wakerareru' (to be divided).
最近、炭水化物を控えすぎて、力が出ません。
Recently I've been cutting back on carbs too much and have no energy.
Te-form + sugite (because of doing too much).
炭水化物の摂りすぎは、太る原因になります。
Overconsumption of carbohydrates becomes a cause of weight gain.
Verb stem + sugi (over-doing) + wa + Noun + ni naru.
このパンには、良質な炭水化物が含まれています。
This bread contains high-quality carbohydrates.
Noun + ni wa + Noun + ga + fukumarete iru (is contained).
炭水化物をエネルギーに変えるにはビタミンB1が必要です。
Vitamin B1 is necessary to convert carbohydrates into energy.
Noun + o + Noun + ni + kaeru (to change A into B).
ラーメンとチャーハンのセットは、炭水化物の塊(かたまり)だ。
A ramen and fried rice set is a mass of carbohydrates.
Noun + no + katamari (a lump/mass of).
過剰な炭水化物の摂取は、生活習慣病のリスクを高めます。
Excessive intake of carbohydrates increases the risk of lifestyle diseases.
Adjective + Noun + no + Noun (complex noun phrase).
炭水化物が不足すると、体は筋肉を分解してエネルギーを作ります。
When carbohydrates are insufficient, the body breaks down muscle to create energy.
Conditional 'to' used for physiological facts.
低炭水化物ダイエットを長期間続けるのは難しいと言われています。
It is said that it is difficult to continue a low-carb diet for a long time.
To iwarete iru (It is said that...).
マラソン選手は、レース前に炭水化物を蓄える必要があります。
Marathon runners need to store carbohydrates before a race.
Hitsuyou ga aru (There is a need to).
炭水化物の質によって、血糖値の上がり方が異なります。
The way blood sugar levels rise differs depending on the quality of the carbohydrates.
Noun + ni yotte (depending on).
精製された炭水化物よりも、全粒穀物の方が健康的です。
Whole grains are healthier than refined carbohydrates.
A yori mo B no hou ga (B is more ... than A).
炭水化物は私たちの食生活において最も重要なエネルギー源です。
Carbohydrates are the most important energy source in our diet.
Noun + ni oite (in/at - formal).
炭水化物を適切に摂取することで、集中力を維持できます。
By consuming carbohydrates appropriately, you can maintain concentration.
Verb (dictionary form) + koto de (by doing...).
炭水化物の代謝異常が、糖尿病の主な原因の一つと考えられています。
Abnormal carbohydrate metabolism is considered one of the main causes of diabetes.
To kangaerarete iru (It is considered that...).
複雑な炭水化物は、単純な糖類よりもゆっくりと消化されます。
Complex carbohydrates are digested more slowly than simple sugars.
Passive 'shoka sareru' (to be digested).
戦後の日本において、炭水化物中心の食生活から欧米化が進みました。
In post-war Japan, there was a shift from a carb-centered diet toward Westernization.
Kara ... e no (from ... to ... shift).
炭水化物の過剰摂取がインスリン抵抗性を引き起こす可能性があります。
Excessive carbohydrate intake has the potential to cause insulin resistance.
Kanousei ga aru (There is a possibility).
植物は光合成によって、二酸化炭素と水から炭水化物を合成します。
Plants synthesize carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water through photosynthesis.
Noun + kara + Noun + o + gousei suru (to synthesize).
炭水化物の摂取タイミングがアスリートのリカバリーに与える影響は大きいです。
The timing of carbohydrate intake has a significant impact on athlete recovery.
Noun + ga + Noun + ni ataeru eikyou (the influence that A gives to B).
脳は唯一のエネルギー源として炭水化物(ブドウ糖)を利用します。
The brain utilizes carbohydrates (glucose) as its sole energy source.
Toshite (as).
炭水化物の制限は、一時的な減量には有効ですが、リバウンドのリスクも伴います。
Carbohydrate restriction is effective for temporary weight loss but carries a risk of rebound.
Noun + o tomonau (to involve/accompany).
炭水化物の重合度によって、その物理的および化学的性質が決定されます。
The degree of polymerization of carbohydrates determines their physical and chemical properties.
Passive 'kettei sareru' (to be determined).
生体内における炭水化物の役割は、単なるエネルギー源に留まりません。
The role of carbohydrates in living organisms is not limited to being a mere energy source.
Ni todomaranai (not limited to).
炭水化物は細胞表面の受容体として、細胞間コミュニケーションに寄与しています。
As receptors on cell surfaces, carbohydrates contribute to intercellular communication.
Ni kiyo shite iru (is contributing to).
高度に精製された炭水化物の蔓延が、現代社会の肥満パンデミックの一因です。
The prevalence of highly refined carbohydrates is a factor in the obesity pandemic of modern society.
Noun + no + man'en (prevalence/spread).
糖鎖生物学は、炭水化物が生命現象に果たす複雑な役割を解明しようとしています。
Glycobiology seeks to elucidate the complex roles that carbohydrates play in life phenomena.
Volitional + to shite iru (trying/seeking to).
炭水化物の供給不足は、ケトーシスという代謝状態を誘発します。
An insufficient supply of carbohydrates induces a metabolic state called ketosis.
Noun + to iu (called).
日本政府の食事バランスガイドでは、炭水化物の適切な摂取比率が示されています。
The Japanese government's Food Balance Guide indicates the appropriate intake ratio of carbohydrates.
Passive 'shimesarete iru' (is shown).
炭水化物の構造解析は、次世代のバイオ燃料開発において不可欠なプロセスです。
Structural analysis of carbohydrates is an indispensable process in the development of next-generation biofuels.
Ni oite fukaketsu na (indispensable in).
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— Carbs are filling/stay in the stomach. Used to describe satiety.
餅は炭水化物だからお腹にたまるね。
— A 'carb festival.' Used when a meal has too many different carbs (e.g., pizza and pasta).
今日のランチは炭水化物祭りだ!
— To turn carbohydrates into energy. Common in health talk.
ビタミンが炭水化物をエネルギーに変えます。
— To restrict carbohydrates. Formal way to say 'dieting.'
医師に炭水化物を制限するように言われた。
— Eating multiple carb sources in one meal (e.g., rice and udon).
炭水化物の重ね食べは控えましょう。
— I love carbs. A very common casual expression.
私は炭水化物大好き人間です。
— Not enough carbs. Used when feeling low energy.
炭水化物が足りないと頭が働かない。
— Absorption of carbohydrates.
食物繊維は炭水化物の吸収を穏やかにする。
— To store carbohydrates (as glycogen).
筋肉に炭水化物を蓄える。
— Carb-free / Without carbs.
炭水化物抜きメニューを探しています。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Carbs = Sugar + Fiber. Toushitsu is just the sugar/starch part.
Shishitsu is 'fats.' Some beginners mix up macronutrient names.
Tansui means 'fresh water' (like a lake). One kanji is different.
관용어 및 표현
— Something that is pure carbohydrate. Often used to describe unhealthy but delicious food.
あの揚げパンは炭水化物の塊だね。
Informal— Thinking only about carbs (usually when hungry or on a diet).
ダイエット中で炭水化物で頭がいっぱいだ。
Informal— To treat carbohydrates as the enemy (in a dieting context).
炭水化物を敵に回すような生活はしたくない。
Humorous— The temptation of carbohydrates (like fresh bread or rice).
夜中の炭水化物の誘惑には勝てない。
Neutral— Carbohydrate heaven. A place with lots of delicious starchy food.
このパン屋は炭水化物天国だ!
Informal— To make carbohydrates your ally (using them for energy efficiently).
炭水化物を味方につけてマラソンを完走する。
Neutral— Carbohydrate addiction (hyperbolic or literal).
私は自称・炭水化物依存症です。
Informal— The 'carb wall' (the difficulty of giving them up).
ダイエットを始めると、すぐに炭水化物の壁にぶつかる。
Casual— To 'charge up' on carbs (like charging a battery).
試合前に炭水化物をチャージする。
Informal— The 'violence' of carbs (slang for a meal that is overwhelmingly heavy and starchy).
この特大チャーハン、炭水化物の暴力だよ。
Slang혼동하기 쉬운
They both refer to 'carbs' in a diet context.
Tansui-kabutsu is the total; Toushitsu is the net carbs.
炭水化物10g(糖質8g、食物繊維2g)
Both make you gain weight if overeaten.
Fat vs Carbohydrate.
脂肪分が多い肉 vs 炭水化物が多い米
Most staple foods are carbs.
Shushoku is a meal role; Tansui-kabutsu is a nutrient.
今日の主食はパスタです。
It's the main part of carbs.
Starch is a specific type of carbohydrate.
ジャガイモにはデンプンが多い。
Sounds like 糖質.
Tourui refers specifically to simple sugars like glucose/sucrose.
糖類ゼロのコーラ。
문장 패턴
[Food] は 炭水化物 です。
パンは炭水化物です。
炭水化物を [Verb-masu].
炭水化物を食べます。
炭水化物を [Verb-te] います。
炭水化物を控えています。
炭水化物抜きの [Noun]
炭水化物抜きの食事
炭水化物の摂りすぎは [Result]
炭水化物の摂りすぎは体に悪いです。
炭水化物を [Noun] に変える
炭水化物をエネルギーに変える。
炭水化物に含まれる [Substance]
炭水化物に含まれる糖質
炭水化物の [Technical term]
炭水化物の代謝異常
어휘 가족
명사
동사
관련
사용법
High (especially in health-conscious Japan)
-
Saying 'Tansui' for carbs.
→
Tansui-kabutsu or Toushitsu.
Tansui alone means 'fresh water.' You need the whole word.
-
Confusing 炭水化物 with 脂質 (fat).
→
炭水化物 is rice/bread; 脂質 is oil/fat.
Learners often mix up the technical names for macros.
-
Writing 炭 as 岩.
→
炭 (charcoal) vs 岩 (rock).
The top part is the same, but the bottom is 'fire' vs 'stone.'
-
Using 'kaabo' in formal writing.
→
炭水化物.
Kaabo is informal/slang for athletes.
-
Thinking 炭水化物 is only bad.
→
It is a necessary nutrient.
Avoid the bias that 'carbs' only means 'junk food.'
팁
Chemical Kanji
Remember: 炭 (Carbon) + 水 (Water). It’s the literal translation of 'Carbo' + 'Hydrate'!
Label Reading
Always check the back of Japanese snacks. '炭水化物' is usually the third item down under calories and protein.
Toushitsu vs Tansui-kabutsu
If you are counting net carbs, look for 糖質 (toushitsu), not the total 炭水化物.
The Rice Factor
In Japan, avoiding 炭水化物 almost always means skipping the rice bowl.
Compound Words
Add 'nuki' (omission) to make 炭水化物抜き (carb-free) easily.
Rhythm
Practice the 7-beat rhythm: ta-n-su-i-ka-bu-tsu.
Energy
Associate the word with energy. 'Tansui-kabutsu wa energy no moto' (Carbs are the source of energy).
Kanji Order
Pay attention to 'ka' (化); it's only two strokes but easy to mess up.
Marketing
Look for ロカボ (Locabo) logos for low-carb products in supermarkets.
Politeness
If you can't eat carbs, say '炭水化物を控えています' to sound polite and health-conscious.
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'Tan' (Tanning charcoal), 'Sui' (Swimming in water), and 'Kabutsu' (A monster/matter). A charcoal monster swimming in water is a carb!
시각적 연상
Imagine a piece of coal (炭) getting wet in the rain (水) and turning into a giant loaf of bread (化物).
Word Web
챌린지
Go to a Japanese convenience store (or look at a photo of a label) and find the word 炭水化物 on three different items.
어원
Coined in the Meiji era (late 19th century) as a translation for the Western scientific term 'carbohydrate.'
원래 의미: Carbon (炭) + Water (水) + Compound/Matter (化物).
Sino-Japanese (Kango).문화적 맥락
Be careful when discussing diets with Japanese people; rice is a very sensitive cultural topic and some may find 'low-carb' trends disrespectful to traditional farmers.
English speakers often say 'carbs.' Japanese speakers use the full word 炭水化物 in formal settings and 糖質 in diet settings.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
At the Gym
- PFCバランスを考えましょう
- 炭水化物をチャージする
- カーボローディング
- エネルギー不足
At the Doctor
- 炭水化物を制限してください
- 血糖値の上昇
- 糖質の摂りすぎ
- バランスの取れた食事
Cooking
- 炭水化物中心のメニュー
- 主食を玄米に変える
- デンプンでとろみをつける
- 小麦粉を控える
Reading Labels
- 炭水化物 10g
- 糖質オフ
- 食物繊維たっぷり
- 栄養成分表示
Dieting
- 炭水化物抜きダイエット
- 夜だけ炭水化物を抜く
- 低炭水化物メニュー
- リバウンドが怖い
대화 시작하기
"最近、炭水化物を控えていますか? (Have you been cutting back on carbs lately?)"
"一番好きな炭水化物は何ですか? (What is your favorite carbohydrate?)"
"ダイエット中に炭水化物を抜くのは難しいですよね? (It's hard to cut out carbs during a diet, isn't it?)"
"日本の食事は炭水化物が多いと思いますか? (Do you think Japanese meals have a lot of carbohydrates?)"
"マラソンの前に何を食べて炭水化物を摂りますか? (What do you eat to get carbs before a marathon?)"
일기 주제
今日の食事の中で、どの炭水化物を食べましたか? (Which carbohydrates did you eat in today's meals?)
炭水化物を抜くダイエットについてどう思いますか? (What do you think about carb-omitting diets?)
あなたの国の代表的な炭水化物は何ですか? (What is the representative carbohydrate of your country?)
炭水化物を食べすぎた日の罪悪感について書いてください。 (Write about the guilt of a day when you ate too many carbs.)
エネルギーを出すために炭水化物は必要だと思いますか? (Do you think carbohydrates are necessary for energy?)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문No, rice is a type of 炭水化物, but the word includes bread, pasta, potatoes, and even the sugar in fruit. In Japan, though, rice is the most discussed carbohydrate.
You can say 'te-tansui-kabutsu' (低炭水化物), but the more common buzzword is 'toushitsu-ofu' (糖質オフ) or 'rokabo' (ロカボ).
It is a scientific compound word created in the 19th century. It literally means 'carbon-water-compound,' which is the chemical definition of a carbohydrate.
Yes, they use 'kaabo' (カーボ), especially in fitness and bodybuilding circles for things like 'carb loading.'
Yes, on nutrition labels, 炭水化物 is the sum of 糖質 (sugar) and 食物繊維 (fiber).
Technically yes, but if you mean table sugar, use 'satou' (砂糖). If you mean sugar as a nutrient, use '糖質'.
It's 'mountain' (山) on top, 'cliff' (厂) in the middle, and 'fire' (火) at the bottom. It means charcoal.
It means 'without carbohydrates' or 'omitting carbohydrates,' usually referring to a diet where you don't eat rice or bread.
Not usually, but constantly worrying about carbs while someone has cooked a nice meal for you might be seen as slightly obsessive.
It is generally considered B1 because while the concept is simple, the word is technical and used in health discussions.
셀프 테스트 180 질문
Write 'Rice is a carbohydrate' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I like carbohydrates' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I eat too many carbohydrates' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'This bread has many carbohydrates' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I am refraining from carbohydrates for my health' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Carbohydrates are necessary for the brain' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'It is important to consume carbohydrates after exercise' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Excessive carbohydrate intake is a cause of weight gain' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Carbohydrates are divided into sugars and fiber' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Plants synthesize carbohydrates through photosynthesis' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Carbohydrates are energy' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Is this a carbohydrate?' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I am doing a carb-free diet' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Carbs turn into energy' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Carb metabolism is important' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Bread and rice' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Eat vegetables too' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Don't eat too many carbs' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Check the label' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Glucose is a carb' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu' out loud.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Gohan wa tansui-kabutsu desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu o hikaemasu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu ga ooi desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu nuki daietto chuu desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu wa energy no moto desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Kajou na tansui-kabutsu sesshu wa yoku nai desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Label no tansui-kabutsu o check shimasu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu wa toushitsu to shokumotsu-sen'i ni wakaremasu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Kougousei ni yotte tansui-kabutsu ga gousei saremasu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Pan mo tansui-kabutsu desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu o tabesugimashita.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Nou ni wa tansui-kabutsu ga hitsuyou desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Un'dou go ni tansui-kabutsu o torimasu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu no taisha ga warui desu.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu suki!'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Kore wa tansui-kabutsu desu ka?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu no katamari.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'PFC balance o kangaeru.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Tansui-kabutsu no seigen.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen and identify the word: 炭水化物
Listen and identify: 炭水化物を控える
Listen and identify: 炭水化物抜き
Listen and identify: 炭水化物の摂りすぎ
Listen and identify: 炭水化物代謝
Listen and identify: パンは炭水化物
Listen and identify: 炭水化物が多い
Listen and identify: 脳に炭水化物
Listen and identify: 良質な炭水化物
Listen and identify: 糖質と食物繊維
Listen and identify: 炭水化物です
Listen and identify: 炭水化物を食べる
Listen and identify: 炭水化物を抜く
Listen and identify: 炭水化物を蓄える
Listen and identify: 光合成と炭水化物
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
炭水化物 is the essential Japanese term for 'carbohydrates.' Use it when reading food labels or discussing nutrition. Remember that in Japan, rice is the king of 炭水化物, and most diet discussions revolve around managing its intake. Example: 炭水化物を控える (Cutting back on carbs).
- 炭水化物 (Tansui-kabutsu) means 'carbohydrate' in Japanese, used in both everyday health talk and scientific contexts.
- It is a compound of kanji meaning carbon (炭), water (水), and matter (化物).
- In Japan, it primarily refers to rice, bread, and noodles, the pillars of the national diet.
- On nutrition labels, it is the sum of sugars (糖質) and dietary fiber (食物繊維).
Chemical Kanji
Remember: 炭 (Carbon) + 水 (Water). It’s the literal translation of 'Carbo' + 'Hydrate'!
Label Reading
Always check the back of Japanese snacks. '炭水化物' is usually the third item down under calories and protein.
Toushitsu vs Tansui-kabutsu
If you are counting net carbs, look for 糖質 (toushitsu), not the total 炭水化物.
The Rice Factor
In Japan, avoiding 炭水化物 almost always means skipping the rice bowl.
예시
炭水化物の摂りすぎは良くない。
관련 콘텐츠
이 단어를 다른 언어로
health 관련 단어
しばらく
B1잠시, 잠깐, 한동안.
異変がある
B1이상한 변화나 이상이 있음. 정상이 아니거나 잘못된 것이 있음. (비정상적인 상황이 발생함.)
異常な
B1비정상적인; 이상한. 정상적인 상태에서 크게 벗어난 것을 나타냅니다.
擦り傷
B1피부 표면이 긁혀서 생긴 상처. 넘어지거나 거친 표면에 스쳤을 때 생기는 가벼운 상처.
吸収する
B1스펀지가 물을 흡수한다.
禁酒
B1금주. '건강을 위해 금주를 시작했습니다.'
痛む
A2to hurt; to ache
鍼灸
B1침구는 침과 뜸을 사용하여 신체의 질병을 치료하는 전통 의학입니다.
急性的
B1질병이나 상태가 갑자기 나타나고 진행이 빠른 상태. 만성적의 반대말.
急性な
B1Acute