At the A1 level, learners should focus on the basic meaning of 'aburakkoi' as 'greasy' or 'oily' in the context of food. It is a simple i-adjective used to express likes and dislikes. For example, a beginner might say 'Aburakkoi tabemono wa suki ja nai desu' (I don't like greasy food). It is helpful to learn this word alongside basic food items like 'ramen', 'tempura', and 'niku' (meat). At this stage, don't worry too much about the different kanji for animal fat vs. vegetable oil; just focus on the sound and the general concept of 'too much oil'. This word helps you communicate basic needs and preferences when dining out in Japan, which is a key survival skill for any visitor.
At the A2 level, you should be able to conjugate 'aburakkoi' into its negative and past forms. You might use it to describe a meal you had yesterday: 'Kinou no ryouri wa chotto aburakkokatta desu' (Yesterday's food was a bit greasy). You will also start to see it in simple health contexts, such as understanding that 'aburakkoi mono' (greasy things) might be bad for your stomach. You should also begin to recognize the opposite term, 'assari' (light), to help you make choices on a menu. This level involves using the word to engage in basic conversations about lifestyle and eating habits with friends or colleagues.
For B1 learners, the nuance between 'aburakkoi' (greasy) and 'kotteri' (rich/thick) becomes important. You should be able to use 'aburakkoi' to explain why you didn't enjoy a particular dish or why you are choosing a certain restaurant. You might use it in more complex sentences, such as 'Aburakkoi mono o tabesugiru to, kimochi ga waruku narimasu' (If I eat too much greasy food, I feel sick). At this level, you are expected to understand the social context—that calling a meal 'aburakkoi' can be a mild criticism. You should also be comfortable using the word in writing, such as in a simple diary entry or a social media post about your lunch.
At the B2 level, you should be familiar with the different kanji (脂 vs 油) and when to use each in writing. You will also encounter 'aburakkoi' in more formal or descriptive contexts, such as food reviews or health articles. You should understand how it relates to other terms like 'shitsukoi' (cloying) and 'gitogito' (dripping with oil). A B2 learner can discuss the cultural aspects of greasy food in Japan, such as the popularity of heavy ramen among students versus the lighter traditional 'washoku' preferred by older generations. You can also use the word metaphorically to describe a 'heavy' or 'overbearing' style of speech or writing, though this is less common.
C1 learners should have a masterful grasp of 'aburakkoi' and its related vocabulary. You will understand the subtle implications of using this word in professional culinary settings versus casual conversation. You should be able to analyze the etymology (the suffix '-kkoi' meaning 'tending towards') and how it applies to other words. You will encounter 'aburakkoi' in literature or high-level journalism where it might be used to paint a vivid picture of a setting, such as a 'greasy' atmosphere in a low-end izakaya. You should also be able to explain the physiological effects of 'aburakkoi' foods using specialized medical or nutritional Japanese terms.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like intuition for 'aburakkoi'. You can use it in creative writing to evoke specific sensory responses or to characterize a person's vibe or aesthetic. You understand the historical shifts in the Japanese diet that made 'aburakkoi' foods more common (such as the introduction of deep-frying and heavier meat consumption in the Meiji era). You can debate the merits of 'aburakkoi' cuisine in the context of modern health trends and traditional Japanese culinary philosophy. Your use of the word is perfectly calibrated for tone, register, and social context, whether you are writing a scholarly article on gastronomy or joking with friends at a street stall.

脂っこい 30초 만에

  • 脂っこい (aburakkoi) means greasy or oily, primarily used to describe food with high fat content.
  • It is an i-adjective, meaning it conjugates to 'aburakkokunai' (not greasy) and 'aburakkokatta' (was greasy).
  • In writing, 脂 (animal fat) is used for meat, while 油 (vegetable oil) is used for fried items.
  • It is often contrasted with 'assari' (light) and can be used as a descriptor or a mild criticism.

The Japanese adjective 脂っこい (aburakkoi) is a cornerstone of culinary and sensory vocabulary in Japan. At its core, it translates to 'greasy' or 'oily,' but its usage is nuanced by the specific kanji used. When written with 脂 (fat/lard), it specifically refers to animal fats, such as the marbling in Wagyu beef or the heavy broth of Tonkotsu ramen. If written as 油っこい (also pronounced aburakkoi), it refers more generally to vegetable oils used in frying. For learners, mastering this word is essential for navigating Japanese dining etiquette and expressing personal preferences regarding the country's diverse food landscape, which ranges from the incredibly light and 'sappari' (refreshing) to the intensely rich and 'kotteri' (heavy).

Sensory Profile
It describes a mouthfeel that is coating, heavy, and potentially overwhelming. It is not always negative; some people crave 'aburakkoi' food when they are hungry or tired.

最近、脂っこいものを食べると胃もたれがするんだ。 (Lately, when I eat greasy things, I get heartburn.)

In a social context, you might use this word to describe a meal that was perhaps a bit too much to handle. For example, after visiting a popular ramen shop known for its thick layer of back-fat (se-abura), a diner might remark on how 'aburakkoi' the experience was. It suggests a level of fat that lingers on the palate and the lips. Understanding the distinction between 'aburakkoi' and 'oishii' (delicious) is key; a dish can be both, but 'aburakkoi' specifically targets the fat content. It is often contrasted with 'assari' (light/simple) or 'sappari' (clean/refreshing).

Cultural Nuance
Japanese cuisine often balances 'aburakkoi' dishes with sides like pickled ginger (shoga) or grated radish (daikon oroshi) to cut through the grease and cleanse the palate.

Beyond food, while less common, the term can occasionally describe skin types or even a person's heavy-handed or 'greasy' personality, though 'aburagitta' is more common for the physical state of skin. In a culinary-obsessed culture like Japan, being able to accurately describe the 'abura' (oil/fat) content of a meal is a sign of linguistic competence and gastronomic appreciation. Whether you are avoiding fried foods for health reasons or seeking out the richest ramen in Tokyo, this word will be your constant companion in conversations about diet and dining.

この天ぷらは全然脂っこくないですね。 (This tempura isn't greasy at all, is it?)

Using 脂っこい (aburakkoi) correctly requires an understanding of i-adjective conjugation. As an i-adjective, it follows standard patterns: 'aburakkoi' (present), 'aburakkokunai' (negative), 'aburakkokatta' (past), and 'aburakkokunakatta' (past negative). It typically modifies nouns directly or functions as a predicate. When modifying a noun, it precedes it directly: 'aburakkoi ryouri' (greasy food). When used as a predicate, it often ends with 'desu' for politeness: 'Kono niku wa aburakkoi desu' (This meat is greasy).

Direct Modification
脂っこい食事 (Aburakkoi shokuji) - A greasy meal. This is the most common way to use the word in daily life.

健康のために、脂っこいものは控えています。 (For my health, I am cutting back on greasy things.)

In comparative sentences, you might say 'Kore wa are yori aburakkoi' (This is greasier than that). It is also frequently used with adverbs of degree like 'chotto' (a little), 'sugoku' (very), or 'amari' (not very, used with negative). For example, 'Amari aburakkokunai desu' (It's not very greasy). This flexibility allows speakers to provide precise feedback on the quality of a dish, which is highly valued in Japanese culture where subtle taste distinctions are often discussed at length during meals.

Adverbial Use
By changing the final 'i' to 'ku', it can function adverbially, though this is rarer. More common is the use of 'aburakkoku' in negative constructions like 'aburakkoku shinai de kudasai' (Please don't make it greasy).

One should also be aware of the emotional weight the word carries. While it describes a physical property, saying 'aburakkoi' in a restaurant might be interpreted as a slight criticism if said too loudly or bluntly. It is often softened with 'chotto' (a little) to sound more like a personal observation than a definitive judgment on the chef's skill. Conversely, among friends at a yakiniku (BBQ) restaurant, shouting 'Aburakkoi!' while eating a prime cut of rib meat can be an exclamation of joy at the richness of the food.

この唐揚げは、冷めても脂っこくなくて美味しい。 (This fried chicken is delicious and not greasy even when it gets cold.)

The word 脂っこい (aburakkoi) is omnipresent in Japanese media and daily life, particularly in the context of Japan's vibrant food culture. You will hear it constantly on food-themed variety shows (gurume bangumi), where presenters travel across the country to sample local delicacies. When a host bites into a piece of deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) or a bowl of ramen, they will often use 'aburakkoi' to describe the intensity of the flavor. If the grease is high-quality and delicious, they might pair it with positive words, but if it's overwhelming, their facial expressions will signal the 'shitsukoi' (heavy/cloying) nature of the grease.

In the Kitchen
Home cooks use it when discussing recipes. 'Aburakkoku naranai kotsu' (tips for not making it greasy) is a common search term for recipes involving frying.

テレビの食レポで「脂っこいけど、後味がさっぱりしている」と言っていた。 (On the TV food report, they said 'It's greasy, but the aftertaste is refreshing.')

You will also encounter this word in health-related contexts. Doctors and nutritionists frequently use 'aburakkoi' when advising patients on heart health, weight loss, or digestive issues. In pharmacy settings, commercials for digestive aids (ichou-yaku) often feature people clutching their stomachs after eating 'aburakkoi' meals, promising relief from the 'motsure' (heaviness) that such foods cause. This has cemented the word in the public consciousness as something that is tasty but requires moderation.

Advertising
Beverage companies market 'Tokutoku' (special health) teas like Kuro-Oolong tea specifically to be drunk with 'aburakkoi' meals to 'block' fat absorption.

In casual conversation, friends might use it when deciding where to eat. 'Kyou wa aburakkoi mono wa yametoko' (Let's skip greasy food today) is a common sentiment when someone is feeling a bit under the weather or has been overindulging. It's a word that bridges the gap between the joy of eating and the practicalities of physical health, making it a vital piece of the Japanese social fabric.

お昼に脂っこい中華を食べたから、夜はサラダにしよう。 (I had greasy Chinese food for lunch, so let's have salad for dinner.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 脂っこい (aburakkoi) is confusing the kanji 脂 (animal fat) and 油 (vegetable oil/liquid oil). While they are pronounced the same, using the wrong kanji in writing can change the nuance. Using 脂っこい for French fries might look slightly odd to a Japanese person, as fries are cooked in vegetable oil (油). However, in spoken Japanese, this distinction disappears completely, so beginners should focus on the sound first.

Kanji Confusion
脂 = Animal fat (Bacon, Lard, Meat marbling). 油 = Vegetable oil, petroleum, or general liquid oil.

このサラダは脂っこい。 (Incorrect kanji for an oil-based dressing; should be 油っこい or just 'oily').

Another common error is overusing 'aburakkoi' when 'shitsukoi' (heavy/cloying) or 'kotteri' (rich/thick) would be more appropriate. While 'aburakkoi' is strictly about the fat content, 'kotteri' is often used as a positive descriptor for rich flavors, such as a high-quality ramen broth. If you tell a chef his food is 'aburakkoi', he might take it as a criticism of his frying technique. If you say it's 'kotteri', he will likely take it as a compliment on the depth of the flavor.

Adjective Type Error
Learners often treat it like a na-adjective. Never say 'aburakkoi na ryouri'. It is always 'aburakkoi ryouri'.

Finally, avoid using 'aburakkoi' to describe people's skin in a polite setting. While it's factually descriptive, it can be offensive. Instead, terms like 'tesou' (shiny/oily skin) or 'aburappoi' are used in the beauty industry. Using 'aburakkoi' for a person's character (meaning they are overly pushy or 'greasy' in their social interactions) is a highly specific, slangy usage that beginners should avoid until they have a better grasp of social registers.

彼の性格は脂っこい。 (Too literal; usually 'shitsukoi' or 'kudoi' is better for 'annoying/persistent').

Understanding the synonyms of 脂っこい (aburakkoi) is crucial for achieving a natural-sounding Japanese vocabulary. Each alternative carries a slightly different 'flavor' or intensity. For example, ギトギト (gitogito) is an onomatopoeic word that describes something dripping with oil or extremely greasy—think of a garage floor or a very poorly made piece of fried food. It is much more negative and visceral than 'aburakkoi'.

Comparison: Aburakkoi vs. Kotteri
'Aburakkoi' describes the presence of oil. 'Kotteri' describes the richness and thickness of flavor, which often comes from fat but is generally seen as a positive culinary attribute.
Comparison: Aburakkoi vs. Shitsukoi
'Shitsukoi' means 'persistent' or 'heavy'. In food, it means the taste lingers unpleasantly. 'Aburakkoi' food is often 'shitsukoi', but 'shitsukoi' can also describe a persistent person.

このスープはこってりしているけど、脂っこくはない。 (This soup is rich/thick, but it's not greasy.)

Another important word is 脂の乗った (abura no notta). This is a very positive term used specifically for fish or meat that has a good amount of high-quality fat, like 'otoro' (fatty tuna). It implies the fat makes the food delicious and melt-in-your-mouth. Calling a high-quality piece of fish 'aburakkoi' might sound like you don't appreciate its quality, whereas 'abura no notta' is high praise.

Comparison: Aburakkoi vs. Oily (オイリー)
'Oily' is a loanword often used in the cosmetics industry for skin or hair. 'Aburakkoi' is rarely used in high-end skincare contexts.

Lastly, consider 脂ぎった (aburagitta). This verb-derived adjective is often used for skin or faces that are unpleasantly shiny with sweat and oil, or even metaphorically for someone who looks 'sleazy' or overly aggressive. It is much more descriptive of a physical state than the taste-oriented 'aburakkoi'. Choosing the right word from this set will make your Japanese sound much more sophisticated and precise.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The suffix '-kkoi' is often used for sensory perceptions that are slightly negative or overwhelming, like 'shoppai' (salty) or 'suppai' (sour), though those have slightly different origins, they share the 'persistent' feel.

발음 가이드

UK æ.bʊ.ræk.kɔɪ
US ɑ.bu.rɑk.kɔɪ
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'aburakkoi', the pitch starts low on 'a', rises on 'bu', and stays high until 'ko', then drops.
라임이 맞는 단어
Suppai (sour) Shoppai (salty) Ama-shoppai (sweet and salty) Shitsukoi (persistent) Nikku-kkoi (hateful) Waza-torokkoi (clumsy) Kudoi (verbose) Nurui (lukewarm)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing it as 'abura-koi' without the double 'k' sound.
  • Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like a different word.
  • Vocalizing the final 'i' too much; it should be a smooth transition.
  • Failing to emphasize the 'bu' sound.
  • Confusing it with 'aburappoi' which is slightly different.

난이도

독해 2/5

The kanji 脂 is common, and the hiragana suffix is easy to recognize.

쓰기 3/5

Distinguishing between 脂 and 油 requires attention to context.

말하기 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward, but the double 'k' requires practice.

듣기 2/5

Commonly used in TV and daily life, so it is easy to pick up.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

脂 (fat) 油 (oil) 美味しい (delicious) 好き (like) 食べる (eat)

다음에 배울 것

あっさり (light) こってり (rich) 胃もたれ (heartburn) 揚げ物 (fried food) 健康 (health)

고급

油分 (oil content) 脂質 (lipids) 中性脂肪 (neutral fat) 皮脂 (sebum) 油断 (negligence - unrelated but same kanji)

알아야 할 문법

i-adjective conjugation

脂っこい -> 脂っこくない

Adjective + Noun

脂っこい肉

Adjective + Sugiru (too much)

脂っこすぎる

Adjective + Naru (to become)

脂っこくなる

Adjective + Node (reason)

脂っこいので

수준별 예문

1

これは脂っこい食べ物です。

This is greasy food.

Simple noun modification: Adjective + Noun.

2

脂っこいものは好きじゃないです。

I don't like greasy things.

Subject marker 'wa' with a negative preference.

3

このラーメンは脂っこいですか?

Is this ramen greasy?

Question form using 'desu ka'.

4

天ぷらは少し脂っこいです。

The tempura is a little greasy.

Using 'sukoshi' (a little) as a modifier.

5

脂っこい肉を食べました。

I ate greasy meat.

Past tense verb with a modified noun.

6

お茶は脂っこい料理に合います。

Tea goes well with greasy dishes.

The particle 'ni' indicates what the tea matches with.

7

あまり脂っこくないです。

It is not very greasy.

Negative form 'aburakkokunai' with 'amari'.

8

脂っこいお菓子ですね。

These are greasy sweets, aren't they?

Sentence ending particle 'ne' for agreement.

1

昨日のピザはとても脂っこかったです。

Yesterday's pizza was very greasy.

Past tense adjective: 'aburakkokatta'.

2

脂っこいものを食べるとお腹が痛くなります。

When I eat greasy things, my stomach hurts.

Conditional 'to' indicating a natural consequence.

3

もっと脂っこくないメニューはありますか?

Is there a less greasy menu item?

Using the negative 'aburakkokunai' to modify a noun.

4

このお肉は脂っこすぎて食べられません。

This meat is too greasy to eat.

The suffix '~sugiru' (too much) attached to the stem.

5

脂っこい食事は控えたほうがいいですよ。

You should cut back on greasy meals.

Advice pattern: '~hou ga ii desu'.

6

唐揚げが脂っこかったので、レモンをかけました。

The fried chicken was greasy, so I squeezed lemon on it.

Reasoning with 'node'.

7

脂っこいものが苦手な人は多いです。

There are many people who aren't good with greasy things.

Using 'nigate' (dislike/not good at).

8

このスープ、見た目より脂っこくないね。

This soup isn't as greasy as it looks, right?

Comparison: 'mitame yori' (than it looks).

1

脂っこい料理には、さっぱりした飲み物が欲しくなります。

With greasy food, you start wanting a refreshing drink.

The verb 'hoshiku naru' (to become wanting).

2

最近の若者は脂っこいラーメンを好む傾向があります。

Young people these days tend to prefer greasy ramen.

'Keikou ga aru' (to have a tendency).

3

脂っこいものを食べた後は、黒烏龍茶を飲むことにしています。

I make it a rule to drink Black Oolong tea after eating greasy food.

'Koto ni shite iru' (making it a habit/rule).

4

この店は脂っこいけど美味しいと評判です。

This shop is famous for being greasy but delicious.

Connecting adjectives with 'kedo' (but).

5

健康診断の結果が悪かったので、脂っこいものは禁止されました。

My health check results were bad, so greasy things were forbidden.

Passive voice: 'kinshi sareta'.

6

油の質が悪いと、料理が余計に脂っこく感じます。

If the oil quality is poor, the dish feels extra greasy.

Adverbial form 'aburakkoku' used with 'kanjiru'.

7

脂っこいものを避けるのは、ダイエットの基本です。

Avoiding greasy things is the basic rule of dieting.

Nominalizing the verb 'sakeru' (avoid) with 'no'.

8

これ以上脂っこいと、胃が受け付けないよ。

If it's any greasier than this, my stomach won't accept it.

Conditional 'to' with 'kore ijou' (more than this).

1

良質な脂は脂っこさを感じさせず、旨味だけを引き立てます。

High-quality fat doesn't make you feel greasiness; it only enhances the umami.

Causative form: 'kanjisasezu' (without making one feel).

2

脂っこい食生活が続くと、肌荒れの原因になります。

If a greasy diet continues, it causes skin breakouts.

'Genin ni naru' (becomes the cause).

3

このレストランの天ぷらは、技術のおかげで全く脂っこくない。

Thanks to the technique, this restaurant's tempura isn't greasy at all.

'~no okage de' (thanks to).

4

脂っこいものを食べた時の胃もたれを解消する薬を買った。

I bought medicine to relieve the heaviness in my stomach after eating greasy food.

Relative clause modifying 'motsure'.

5

彼は脂っこい話ばかりするので、周囲から敬遠されている。

He only tells 'greasy' (sleazy/heavy) stories, so people avoid him.

Metaphorical use of 'aburakkoi'.

6

脂っこい料理の後に提供される口直しのアイスは最高だ。

The palate-cleansing ice cream served after a greasy meal is the best.

'Kuchinaoshi' (palate cleanser).

7

揚げたてのポテトは美味しいが、時間が経つと脂っこくなる。

Freshly fried potatoes are delicious, but they get greasy as time passes.

The verb 'naru' showing a change in state.

8

脂っこいイメージのある中華料理だが、実はヘルシーなものも多い。

Chinese food has a greasy image, but there are actually many healthy dishes.

'~no aru' (that has the [image]).

1

脂っこいという表現は、単に油の量だけでなく、その質や後味も含まれる。

The expression 'aburakkoi' includes not just the amount of oil, but also its quality and aftertaste.

Explaining a definition with 'to iu hyougen wa'.

2

中高年になると、かつて好きだった脂っこいものが食べられなくなる事象を「胃の老化」と呼ぶ。

The phenomenon where middle-aged and older people can no longer eat the greasy foods they once loved is called 'stomach aging'.

Complex sentence structure with nominalized 'jishou'.

3

その作家の文体は脂っこすぎて、一気に読み進めるのは難しい。

That author's prose is too 'greasy' (overly descriptive/heavy), making it hard to read all at once.

Metaphorical application to literary style.

4

脂っこい食事を好む文化圏では、それを相殺するための独自の食習慣が発達している。

In cultures that favor greasy diets, unique eating habits have developed to offset the grease.

'Sousai suru tame no' (for the purpose of offsetting).

5

脂っこいという言葉の裏には、飽食の時代への皮肉が込められている場合もある。

Behind the word 'aburakkoi', there are sometimes ironies directed at the age of overabundance.

'~no ura ni wa' (behind the...).

6

このステーキの脂っこさは、むしろ高級感の証とも言えるだろう。

One could say that the richness of this steak is actually proof of its high quality.

Nominalizing 'aburakkoi' into 'aburakkoisa' (greasiness).

7

脂っこいものを摂取した際の脂質代謝のメカニズムを研究している。

I am researching the mechanism of lipid metabolism when greasy food is ingested.

Formal academic vocabulary: 'sesshu' (ingestion), 'taisha' (metabolism).

8

脂っこい食べ物を巡る言説は、常に健康志向と快楽主義の間で揺れ動いている。

Discourse surrounding greasy food always fluctuates between health consciousness and hedonism.

'~o meguru gensetsu' (discourse surrounding...).

1

脂っこいという形容詞が、日本文学においてどのように都市の喧騒や退廃を象徴してきたかは興味深いテーマだ。

How the adjective 'aburakkoi' has symbolized urban hustle and decadence in Japanese literature is a fascinating theme.

High-level literary analysis structure.

2

極限まで脂っこさを削ぎ落とした懐石料理の美学は、引き算の文化の極致である。

The aesthetic of Kaiseki cuisine, which strips away greasiness to the utmost limit, is the pinnacle of the culture of subtraction.

'Sogi-otoshita' (stripped away/removed).

3

脂っこいという感覚的評価は、個人の体調や文化的背景によって極めて主観的なものとなる。

The sensory evaluation of 'aburakkoi' is extremely subjective, depending on an individual's physical condition and cultural background.

Formal philosophical/scientific tone.

4

脂っこいものがもたらす一時の多幸感と、その後の背徳感の対比は、現代の消費社会を映し出している。

The contrast between the momentary euphoria brought by greasy food and the subsequent sense of guilt reflects modern consumer society.

'Moutarasu' (to bring about).

5

脂っこいという言葉の響きには、どこか土着的な、あるいは生命力に満ちたニュアンスが潜んでいる。

In the sound of the word 'aburakkoi', there lurks a somewhat indigenous or vital nuance.

'Hibiiki' (resonance/sound).

6

脂っこい料理を「重い」と一蹴するのではなく、その重層的な味わいを解読する試みが必要だ。

Rather than dismissing greasy dishes as simply 'heavy', an attempt to decode their multilayered flavors is necessary.

'Isshu suru' (to dismiss/reject).

7

脂っこいという属性が、いかにして特定の社会的階層やジェンダーと結びついて語られてきたかを考察する。

I will consider how the attribute of being 'greasy' has been discussed in connection with specific social classes and genders.

'Musubitsuite katararete kita ka' (how it has come to be told in connection with).

8

脂っこいものが忌避される風潮の中にあって、敢えてその魅力を再定義する。

Amidst the trend where greasy things are avoided, I dare to redefine their appeal.

'~ni atte' (in the situation of).

자주 쓰는 조합

脂っこい料理
脂っこい肉
脂っこいものを控える
脂っこいラーメン
脂っこい味付け
見た目が脂っこい
胃が脂っこいものを受け付けない
脂っこい中華
脂っこいおつまみ
脂っこい揚げ物

자주 쓰는 구문

ちょっと脂っこいですね

— It's a bit greasy, isn't it? Used as a polite observation.

このお肉、ちょっと脂っこいですね。

脂っこいものは避けています

— I am avoiding greasy things. Used when explaining diet.

ダイエット中なので、脂っこいものは避けています。

脂っこいのが好き

— I like greasy things. A casual way to state preference.

私は脂っこいのが好きなんです。

脂っこすぎて食べられない

— It's too greasy to eat. A common complaint.

この天ぷら、脂っこすぎて食べられないよ。

脂っこさを消す

— To remove/neutralize the greasiness.

大根おろしで脂っこさを消す。

脂っこい食生活

— A greasy diet/eating habits.

脂っこい食生活を改善する。

脂っこい後味

— A greasy aftertaste.

脂っこい後味が残る。

脂っこいけど止まらない

— It's greasy but I can't stop (eating).

このポテト、脂っこいけど止まらない!

脂っこいのは胃にくる

— Greasy things hit the stomach hard.

最近、脂っこいのは胃にくるんだよね。

脂っこいものを欲する

— To crave greasy things.

疲れている時は脂っこいものを欲する。

자주 혼동되는 단어

脂っこい vs 油っぽい (aburappoi)

Very similar, but 'aburappoi' feels a bit more like 'oily' in a general sense, whereas 'aburakkoi' is specifically about the 'thickness' of the oil.

脂っこい vs しつこい (shitsukoi)

Means 'persistent'. While greasy food is 'shitsukoi', a person can also be 'shitsukoi' (annoying), but they are rarely called 'aburakkoi' unless it's slang.

脂っこい vs こってり (kotteri)

A positive word for rich, thick flavors. 'Aburakkoi' can be negative, but 'kotteri' is usually a compliment for ramen.

관용어 및 표현

"脂っこい話"

— A heavy or overly detailed/sleazy story. Often used for gossip or persistent sales pitches.

彼の脂っこい話にはもう飽きた。

Informal
"脂っこい性格"

— A 'greasy' personality; someone who is overbearing or too persistent.

あの脂っこい性格はなんとかならないのか。

Slang
"脂っこい顔"

— A face that looks 'heavy' or 'sleazy', not necessarily physically oily.

彼は脂っこい顔をしている。

Informal
"脂っこい芸風"

— A 'heavy' performance style, often used for comedians who are very energetic or over-the-top.

あの芸人の脂っこい芸風が苦手だ。

Entertainment
"脂っこい描写"

— Overly descriptive or 'thick' prose/art.

その小説には脂っこい描写が多い。

Literary
"脂っこい人間関係"

— Overly close or 'heavy' human relationships.

脂っこい人間関係に疲れた。

Psychological
"脂っこいサービス"

— Over-the-top or excessive service.

あの店の脂っこいサービスは好みが分かれる。

Business
"脂っこい演出"

— Heavy-handed direction or production.

映画の脂っこい演出が鼻につく。

Artistic
"脂っこいお世辞"

— Greasy, insincere flattery.

彼の脂っこいお世辞には裏がありそうだ。

Social
"脂っこい色使い"

— Heavy, saturated use of colors in art.

この絵画は脂っこい色使いが特徴だ。

Artistic

혼동하기 쉬운

脂っこい vs 脂 (abura)

Same reading as 油.

脂 is solid animal fat; 油 is liquid oil.

豚の脂 (Pork fat) vs 菜種油 (Rapeseed oil).

脂っこい vs 濃い (koi)

Part of the word 'aburakkoi'.

濃い means 'thick' or 'strong' (flavor/color). 'Aburakkoi' specifically means 'thick with oil'.

味が濃い (Strong taste).

脂っこい vs 重い (omoi)

Used to describe the same feeling.

重い means 'heavy' (weight). In food, it's a metaphorical 'heavy'.

このカバンは重い。

脂っこい vs 太い (futoi)

Related to fatness.

太い means 'thick' (diameter) or 'fat' (person). It's not used for food taste.

太い指 (Thick finger).

脂っこい vs ギトギト (gitogito)

Similar meaning.

Gitogito is onomatopoeia and much more negative/intense.

床がギトギトしている。

문장 패턴

A1

Noun wa aburakkoi desu.

Kono ramen wa aburakkoi desu.

A2

Aburakkoi mono wa [negative verb].

Aburakkoi mono wa tabemasen.

B1

Aburakkokute [result].

Aburakkokute taberaremasen.

B2

Aburakkoi to omou.

Kore wa chotto aburakkoi to omoimasu.

C1

Aburakkoi no ga nigate na hito.

Aburakkoi no ga nigate na hito mo imasu.

C2

Aburakkoi ryouri no miryoku.

Aburakkoi ryouri no miryoku o kataru.

A2

Aburakkoi yori assari.

Aburakkoi yori assari shita mono ga ii.

B1

Aburakkoku suru.

Ryouri o aburakkoku shitakunai.

어휘 가족

명사

脂 (abura - fat/lard)
油 (abura - oil)
脂っこさ (aburakkoisa - greasiness)

동사

脂ぎる (aburagiru - to be greasy/oily)

형용사

脂っこい (aburakkoi - greasy)
脂っぽい (aburappoi - oily/fatty)

관련

揚げ物 (agemono - fried food)
胃もたれ (imotare - stomach heaviness)
こってり (kotteri - rich/thick)
あっさり (assari - light)
脂身 (aburami - fatty meat)

사용법

frequency

Very common in daily life and media.

자주 하는 실수
  • aburakkoi na ryouri aburakkoi ryouri

    It's an i-adjective, so it doesn't need 'na' to modify a noun.

  • aburakoii aburakkoi

    The 'i' is not doubled at the end beyond the standard i-adjective ending.

  • Using 脂っこい for oil-based salad dressing. 油っこい (or just 'oily')

    脂 specifically refers to animal fat. Salad dressing uses vegetable oil (油).

  • aburakkoi desu deshita aburakkokatta desu

    To make the past tense, you conjugate the adjective itself, not the 'desu' (though 'deshita' is sometimes used, 'katta desu' is standard).

  • aburakoi aburakkoi

    Missing the small 'tsu' (っ) changes the rhythm and is incorrect.

The Tea Countermeasure

In Japan, Oolong tea is considered the best drink to pair with 'aburakkoi' food because it is believed to help wash away the oil.

The Kanji Trick

Remember: 脂 (animal fat) has the 'meat' radical on the left (⺼), while 油 (oil) has the 'water' radical (氵).

Softening the Blow

If you find food too greasy, say 'chotto aburakkoi desu ne' rather than just 'aburakkoi!' to be more polite.

Draining the Oil

In Japanese cooking, using 'abura-kiri' (oil draining) paper is essential to prevent food from becoming 'aburakkoi'.

Stomach Care

If you eat too much 'aburakkoi' food, look for 'ichou-yaku' (stomach medicine) in a Japanese drugstore.

Suffix Power

Learning the '-kkoi' suffix helps you understand other words like 'shitsukoi' (persistent) and 'yasuppoi' (cheap-looking).

The Double K

Make sure to pause slightly for the double 'k' (っ) to distinguish it from a single 'k' sound.

I-Adjective Rule

Always treat it as an i-adjective. Conjugate the 'i' just like you would for 'oishii' or 'takai'.

Gitogito Intensity

Use 'gitogito' when 'aburakkoi' isn't strong enough to describe the oily mess.

Root Recognition

Recognizing 'abura' (oil) as the root makes this word immediately understandable even if you forget the suffix.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Abura' (Oil) and 'Koi' (Thick/Strong). Greasy food is literally 'Thick with Oil'.

시각적 연상

Imagine a piece of fried chicken glistening with so much oil it looks like a mirror. That's 'aburakkoi'.

Word Web

Ramen Tempura Fried Chicken Bacon Lard Vegetable Oil Heartburn Stomach Ache

챌린지

Try to find three items in your kitchen right now that you would describe as 'aburakkoi' and say the word out loud.

어원

The word is a combination of 'abura' (fat/oil) and the adjectival suffix '-kkoi'. The suffix '-kkoi' is used in Japanese to indicate a strong tendency, excess, or a lingering quality of the root noun. It is related to the word 'shitsukoi'.

원래 의미: Tending to be full of fat or oil.

Japonic

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using it to describe someone's cooking; it can be taken as a sign that they didn't drain the oil properly.

English speakers might just say 'greasy' or 'oily', but 'aburakkoi' carries a slightly more sensory, mouth-coating nuance.

Jiro Dreams of Sushi (contrasting the lightness of sushi with greasy street food) Tampopo (the famous ramen movie featuring rich, greasy broths) Japanese TV commercials for 'Oolong tea'

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At a Ramen Shop

  • 脂っこいスープですね。
  • 脂少なめでお願いします。
  • 脂っこいのが癖になる。
  • 背脂で脂っこい。

At a Doctor's Visit

  • 脂っこいものは控えてください。
  • 脂っこいものを食べると胃が痛い。
  • 脂っこい食事が多いです。
  • 脂っこいものは消化に悪い。

Cooking at Home

  • 脂っこくならないように揚げる。
  • 脂っこい肉を炒める。
  • 脂っこさを抑えるコツ。
  • この油は脂っこい。

At a Supermarket

  • 脂っこくないお惣菜。
  • 脂っこいお肉は避ける。
  • 脂っこいお菓子。
  • 脂っこくないドレッシング。

Talking about Health/Diet

  • 脂っこいものは太る。
  • 脂っこいものを食べすぎた。
  • 脂っこいものは肌に悪い。
  • 脂っこいものを卒業する。

대화 시작하기

"脂っこい料理とあっさりした料理、どちらが好きですか? (Which do you like better, greasy or light food?)"

"最近食べた中で、一番脂っこかったものは何ですか? (What is the greasiest thing you've eaten recently?)"

"脂っこいものを食べた時、何を飲みたくなりますか? (What do you want to drink when you eat greasy food?)"

"このレストランの唐揚げ、ちょっと脂っこくないですか? (Isn't the fried chicken at this restaurant a bit greasy?)"

"脂っこいものを食べても胃もたれしませんか? (Do you get heartburn when you eat greasy things?)"

일기 주제

今日食べた脂っこいものについて書いてください。 (Write about something greasy you ate today.)

脂っこい食べ物が健康に与える影響についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the impact of greasy food on health?)

あなたが知っている、脂っこいけど美味しい料理を紹介してください。 (Introduce a greasy but delicious dish you know.)

どうして人は疲れている時に脂っこいものを食べたくなるのでしょうか? (Why do people want to eat greasy things when they are tired?)

脂っこいものを控えるための良い方法は何だと思いますか? (What do you think is a good way to cut back on greasy food?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Not necessarily. While it often implies 'too much grease', in the context of certain dishes like ramen or yakiniku, it can describe the very quality that makes the food satisfying. However, use it carefully when talking to a chef.

They sound the same. In writing, use 脂っこい for animal fats (meat, lard) and 油っこい for vegetable oils (tempura, stir-fry). If in doubt, use hiragana.

You can, but it's a bit blunt. 'Oily skin' is usually 'aburappoi hada' or 'oily-hada' in beauty contexts. 'Aburagitta' is used for a very shiny, unpleasantly greasy face.

The negative form is 'aburakkokunai'. You can also use 'assari shite iru' (is light/refreshing).

The noun form is 'aburakkoisa'. You can say 'aburakkoisa o kanjirru' (to feel the greasiness).

People often use 'gito-gito' to describe something extremely greasy in a slangy, visceral way.

Tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen, especially with 'se-abura' (back fat) toppings, is the classic example of 'aburakkoi' ramen.

Yes, but it's metaphorical slang. It means the person is overbearing, sleazy, or 'too much to handle'. It's not a compliment.

It is an i-adjective. You say 'aburakkoi ryouri', not 'aburakkoi na ryouri'.

Change the final 'i' to 'katta'. So, 'aburakkokatta' (was greasy).

셀프 테스트 190 질문

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This ramen is greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I don't like greasy food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Yesterday's meat was greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Is this tempura greasy?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'It is not greasy at all.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Greasy food is bad for the stomach.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I want to eat something not greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Please don't make it greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He tells greasy stories.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Greasy food makes me feel sick.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This steak is too greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I prefer light food to greasy food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The greasiness of this dish is its charm.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I cut back on greasy things for my health.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This fried chicken isn't greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I feel the greasiness.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'A greasy face.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Is there anything not greasy?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This soup is very rich (kotteri) but not greasy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I'm tired of greasy food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce out loud: 脂っこい (Aburakkoi)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'It's a bit greasy.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I don't like greasy things.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Was it greasy?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Not greasy at all.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I ate too much greasy food.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'This meat is greasy.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Greasy ramen is delicious.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Is there anything light (assari)?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I feel the grease.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'It's too greasy to eat.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I'll have some Oolong tea.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'This is greasy but good.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Don't eat too much greasy food.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I prefer light food.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The tempura was greasy.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'It's oily.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Greasy food is bad for health.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I want something not greasy.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'This is the best greasy food.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '脂っこい' (Aburakkoi)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '脂っこくない' (Aburakkokunai)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '脂っこかった' (Aburakkokatta)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいものは好きですか?' (Do you like greasy things?)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'ちょっと脂っこいですね。' (It's a bit greasy.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこい料理は苦手です。' (I'm not good with greasy food.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこすぎるよ。' (It's too greasy.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこくないメニューはありますか?' (Is there a non-greasy menu?)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいものを控えています。' (I am cutting back on greasy things.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいけど、後味がさっぱりしている。' (It's greasy, but the aftertaste is refreshing.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこい話はもういい。' (Enough with the greasy stories.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいお肉を焼いています。' (I am grilling greasy meat.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいお菓子は太る。' (Greasy sweets make you fat.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこいスープだ。' (It's a greasy soup.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: '脂っこさを感じる。' (I feel the greasiness.)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 190 correct

Perfect score!

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