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B1 adjective #6,000 가장 일반적인 11분 분량

ふっくら

fukkura
연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 ふっくら 30초 만에
설명 ふっくら in your Level:
At the A1 level, you can think of 'fukkura' as a word for 'soft and big.' It is most often used with food. Imagine a big, soft piece of bread or a bowl of white rice. When the rice looks like it has a lot of air and is very white and soft, we say 'fukkura.' It is a happy word. You use it to say food looks good to eat. You might also hear it when someone talks about a baby's face. A baby has 'fukkura' cheeks—they are round and soft. It is a simple word to use: '[Thing] wa fukkura shite-iru.' This means '[Thing] is soft and plump.' You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember it for bread, rice, and cute faces. It's a way to show you like how something looks because it's soft and full.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'fukkura' to describe more things around the house. For example, after you wash your towels and they dry in the sun, they become 'fukkura.' They are not flat; they are thick and soft. You can also use it for your bed or pillow. If your pillow is 'fukkura,' it means it is very comfortable. Grammatically, you can use it as an adjective: 'fukkura shita pan' (plump bread) or 'fukkura shita taoru' (plump towel). You will hear this word a lot in Japanese commercials for laundry soap or food. It's a positive word that makes people feel comfortable and warm. Try using it when you eat a nice breakfast or when you touch something soft like a cat's fur or a new blanket.
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At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance that 'fukkura' describes a state of being 'filled with air or moisture' in a healthy way. It's not just 'soft'; it's 'plump.' This is a key word in Japanese cooking. If you grill fish and the meat is thick and juicy, it is 'fukkura.' If it's dry and thin, it's not. You can also use it for nature, like 'fukkura shita tsubomi' (plump flower buds) in spring. These buds are full of life and about to open. At this level, you can distinguish 'fukkura' from 'fuwa fuwa.' Remember: 'fuwa fuwa' is very light like a cloud, but 'fukkura' has some weight and volume. It's the difference between a marshmallow (fuwa fuwa) and a freshly baked loaf of bread (fukkura). It conveys a sense of quality and proper preparation.
At the B2 level, you can use 'fukkura' to describe more abstract or subtle qualities. For example, in skincare, 'fukkura' is used to describe skin that has 'hari' (elasticity) and is well-hydrated. It's the ideal state for healthy skin. You might also see it in literature to describe a person's character or a 'fukkura shita egao' (a soft, full, gentle smile). This implies the smile is warm and sincere, not thin or forced. You should be able to use the adverbial form 'fukkura to' with various verbs like 'shiageru' (to finish/complete) or 'fukuramu' (to swell). For instance, 'Kiji o fukkura to fukuramaseru' (to make the dough rise plumply). This shows you understand how to control the result of an action to achieve that specific, desirable texture.
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At the C1 level, you should appreciate 'fukkura' as part of the rich tapestry of Japanese sensory language. It's not just a description but an aesthetic judgment. Using 'fukkura' shows an appreciation for the 'inochi' (life force) or the 'temahima' (effort and time) put into something. In a professional context, such as a bakery or a textile factory, 'fukkura' is a technical goal. You might analyze why a certain fabric doesn't feel 'fukkura' enough—perhaps the fibers are too dense or the treatment was too harsh. You can also use it to describe the atmosphere of a room or a scene in a story where everything feels 'soft and full of warmth.' It's a word that evokes a sense of 'yasashisa' (gentleness) and 'yutakasa' (richness/abundance) without being flashy.
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At the C2 level, your mastery of 'fukkura' involves using it with perfect timing and poetic precision. You might use it in a critique of a high-end 'kaiseki' meal to describe the exact texture of a steamed dish, or in a literary essay to describe the 'fukkura' quality of a spring landscape where the earth itself seems to be breathing and expanding. You understand the historical and cultural weight of the 'fu' sound in Japanese phonesthetics—how it relates to the breath and the unseen spirit. You can use 'fukkura' to contrast with more modern, 'sharp' (togatta) or 'hard' (katai) aesthetics, positioning 'fukkura' as a symbol of traditional Japanese comfort and organic beauty. Your usage transcends simple description and becomes an expression of a specific cultural sensibility.
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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

ふっくら 30초 만에

  • Fukkura describes things that are plump, soft, and voluminous, like perfectly cooked rice, fresh bread, or a baby's healthy cheeks.
  • It is a positive, sensory word used in cooking, skincare, and for household items like towels and bedding to emphasize comfort.
  • Grammatically, it functions as an adverb, often appearing as 'fukkura to shite-iru' (is plump) or 'fukkura shita' (plumped/soft).
  • It differs from 'fuwa fuwa' (light/airy) by having more physical substance and 'pan-pan' (tightly full) by being soft and yielding.
The Japanese word ふっくら (fukkura) is a quintessential example of Japanese mimetic language, specifically categorized as gitaigo (words that describe states or conditions). It primarily conveys a sense of something being plump, soft, and voluminous in a healthy or appealing way. Unlike words that simply mean 'fat' or 'swollen,' fukkura carries a positive, aesthetic nuance, often associated with things that have been carefully prepared, nurtured, or are naturally supple.
Core Concept
The essence of fukkura lies in the combination of softness and volume. It describes the state of being filled with air or moisture, resulting in a rounded, gentle shape that invites touch or consumption.

炊きたてのご飯が ふっくら としている。 (The freshly cooked rice is plump and fluffy.)

In the culinary world, this word is the gold standard for textures. When you describe rice as fukkura, you aren't just saying it's cooked; you're saying each grain is distinct, hydrated, and perfectly airy. Similarly, for bread or pancakes, it suggests a successful rise—the opposite of being flat or dense. Beyond food, it describes physical features. A baby's cheeks (hoppe) are frequently described as fukkura, emphasizing their health and softness. In skincare, fukkura describes skin that is well-hydrated and elastic.
Usage Contexts
1. Food (Rice, bread, fish). 2. Body parts (Cheeks, hands). 3. Textiles (Down jackets, futons, towels). 4. Nature (Buds of flowers, clouds).

この冬の布団は ふっくら していて暖かい。 (This winter futon is thick and fluffy, and it's warm.)

赤ちゃんの ふっくら したほっぺた。 (A baby's plump cheeks.)

Linguistic Nuance
The 'fu' sound in Japanese often relates to air, breath, or lightness (like 'fuwa fuwa'). The 'kura' ending adds a sense of stability and physical presence, distinguishing it from purely light things like clouds.

春になって、木の芽が ふっくら と膨らんできた。 (Spring has come, and the tree buds have begun to swell plumply.)

焼き上がったパンの ふっくら 感がたまらない。 (The plumpness of the freshly baked bread is irresistible.)

In summary, fukkura is more than just a description; it is an sensory appreciation of life, warmth, and quality. When you use it, you are highlighting the gentle, air-filled volume of an object that makes it look healthy, comfortable, or delicious. It is a word that brings a smile to the speaker because it describes things in their most ideal, soft state. From the steam rising off a bowl of rice to the softness of a new towel, fukkura captures a specific kind of physical perfection that is central to Japanese aesthetic and culinary values.
Using ふっくら (fukkura) correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as an onomatopoeic adverb. It typically appears in three main patterns: followed by the particle 'to' (to describe an action), followed by 'shite iru' (to describe a current state), or followed by 'shita' (as an adjective modifying a noun).
Pattern 1: [Noun] + ga + fukkura (to) shite iru
This is the most common way to describe the current state of something. It means 'is plump/soft.' Example: 'Kono pan wa fukkura shite iru' (This bread is plump/fluffy).

干したばかりのタオルが ふっくら としている。 (The towels that were just hung out to dry are plump and soft.)

Pattern 2: fukkura (to) + [Verb]
Here, it acts as an adverb describing how something changes or is prepared. Common verbs include 'yakeru' (to be baked), 'fukuramu' (to swell), and 'shiageru' (to finish/complete). Example: 'Fukkura to yakiagaru' (To be baked to a plump finish).

パン生地がオーブンの中で ふっくら と膨らんだ。 (The bread dough swelled up plumply in the oven.)

Pattern 3: fukkura (shita) + [Noun]
Use this when you want to use fukkura as a direct adjective. It describes a noun with the quality of being plump. Example: 'Fukkura shita hoppe' (Plump cheeks).

彼女は ふっくら した笑顔が印象的だ。 (She has a memorable, soft/gentle smile.)

In culinary contexts, you will often see it used to describe the ideal result of a cooking process. For instance, when grilling fish like eel (unagi) or mackerel (saba), 'fukkura' indicates that the meat is tender and thick, not dry or thin.

この炭火で焼いた魚は、中が ふっくら していて美味しい。 (This charcoal-grilled fish is plump and delicious on the inside.)

It's also used in the world of fashion and home goods. A 'fukkura' down jacket is one that has regained its loft after being stored. A 'fukkura' carpet is one with a thick, soft pile.

柔軟剤を使ったら、タオルが ふっくら 仕上がった。 (After using fabric softener, the towels came out plump and soft.)

When describing people, be careful. While 'fukkura' is generally positive, it does imply a certain degree of roundness. It is safely used for babies or to describe a healthy, youthful face. However, describing an adult's body as 'fukkura' is a polite way of saying they are slightly chubby or 'well-rounded.' It is much kinder than 'fat' (futotte iru), but still refers to their size. Finally, it is used in nature to describe the burgeoning of life. Buds before they bloom are 'fukkura,' suggesting they are full of potential and life force. This usage highlights the 'filled' nature of the word. Whether it's the steam in rice or the life in a flower bud, fukkura always implies that something is 'full' of the right stuff.
You will encounter ふっくら (fukkura) in a variety of everyday Japanese settings, ranging from the domestic sphere to professional marketing. Its positive connotations make it a favorite for advertisers and storytellers alike.
1. In the Kitchen and Food Media
This is perhaps the most frequent place to hear the word. Cooking shows (ryouri bangumi) are filled with it. When a chef lifts the lid off a rice cooker, they will almost inevitably say, 'Fukkura takigari-mashita!' (It's cooked up plump!). Food packaging for bread, pancakes, and microwaveable rice will use the word in large font to promise a high-quality texture.

「このホットケーキ、 ふっくら 焼けていて美味しそう！」 (This pancake looks delicious, it's baked so plumply!)

2. Skincare and Beauty Advertisements
In the beauty industry, fukkura is a key marketing term. It describes 'plump' skin—skin that is hydrated from within and has good elasticity (hari). Anti-aging products often claim to make your skin 'fukkura' again, suggesting a return to youthful, supple texture. You'll see phrases like 'fukkura hada' (plump skin) in almost every drugstore skincare aisle.
3. Household Chores and Laundry
When talking about laundry, especially towels and bedding, fukkura is the goal. Fabric softener (juunanzai) commercials often show slow-motion shots of towels expanding and becoming 'fukkura' after being washed. It conveys a sense of luxury and hominess.

太陽の光を浴びて、布団が ふっくら と乾いた。 (Basking in the sunlight, the futon dried until it was plump and airy.)

4. Literature and Manga
In descriptive writing, fukkura is used to create a cozy or gentle atmosphere. A character might be described as having 'fukkura shita te' (plump, soft hands), suggesting a kind or nurturing personality. In manga, it's used as a sound effect or a descriptive tag for cute, rounded objects or characters.

その猫は ふっくら とした毛並みを持っていた。 (That cat had a thick, soft/plump coat of fur.)

5. Professional Craftsmanship
Whether it's a baker talking about their sourdough or a traditional craftsman making 'tatami' mats or cushions, fukkura is used to describe the successful achievement of the desired volume and softness. It indicates that the material has been handled with skill.

職人が作った座布団は、 ふっくら していて座り心地が良い。 (The floor cushions made by the craftsman are plump and comfortable to sit on.)

In all these contexts, fukkura acts as a bridge between the physical sensation and an emotional response of comfort, satisfaction, or admiration. It is a word that celebrates the 'just right' state of things that are meant to be soft.
While ふっくら (fukkura) is a versatile and common word, learners often confuse it with other similar onomatopoeic expressions or use it in contexts where the nuance is slightly off. Understanding these distinctions is key to sounding natural in Japanese.
1. Confusing 'Fukkura' with 'Fuwa Fuwa'
This is the most frequent mistake. 'Fuwa fuwa' describes something extremely light and airy, like a cloud, cotton candy, or a very light sponge cake. 'Fukkura,' however, implies more substance and volume. Rice is 'fukkura' (plump), but it is rarely 'fuwa fuwa' (which would imply it's like a cloud). Bread can be both, but 'fukkura' emphasizes the rise and fullness, while 'fuwa fuwa' emphasizes the lightness to the touch.

❌ 綿あめが ふっくら している。 (Cotton candy is fukkura.) -> Better: ふわふわ (fuwa fuwa). Cotton candy has no 'plump' substance; it is pure air.

2. Confusing 'Fukkura' with 'Pan-pan'
'Pan-pan' describes something stretched tight or bursting, like a balloon or a stomach after a big meal. 'Fukkura' is soft and inviting. If a bag is stuffed to the limit, it is 'pan-pan,' not 'fukkura.' Using 'fukkura' for a swollen ankle would also be strange, as 'fukkura' usually implies a healthy, desirable state, whereas 'harete iru' (swollen) or 'pan-pan' is used for medical swelling.
3. Misapplying it to People
As mentioned before, while 'fukkura' is a 'soft' way to describe someone's weight, it's still a comment on their body. Using it to describe a person who is trying to lose weight might be taken as an insult, even if you mean they look 'healthy.' It is best reserved for babies, or as a very gentle euphemism if you are certain the person won't mind.

❌ あの人は最近 ふっくら しましたね。 (That person has become fukkura lately.) -> Use with caution! It means 'they've gained some weight.'

4. Overusing it for Non-Soft Items
Fukkura requires a degree of compressibility. You cannot use it for a 'plump' piece of fruit that is hard (like a crisp apple). For fruit, you might use 'mi-ga tsumatte iru' (full of fruit/meat) or 'maru-maru shita' (round and plump). Fukkura is for things that have a 'give' to them, like a peach or a well-risen bun.
5. Confusing with 'Mochimochi'
'Mochimochi' focuses on the chewiness and elasticity (like a rice cake). While a bread can be both 'fukkura' (plump/risen) and 'mochimochi' (chewy), they describe different aspects. Don't use 'fukkura' if you specifically want to praise the chewy texture of noodles or boba pearls.

❌ このうどんは ふっくら している。 (This udon is fukkura.) -> Better: もちもち (mochimochi). Udon is chewy, not air-filled plump.

By paying attention to these subtle boundaries, you can use 'fukkura' to convey exactly the right kind of soft, healthy volume that the word was intended for.
Japanese is incredibly rich in onomatopoeia for textures. To master ふっくら (fukkura), it helps to see where it sits among its 'cousins.'
ふっくら (Fukkura) vs. ふわふわ (Fuwa Fuwa)
Fukkura: Plump, soft, has body/substance (e.g., a thick pancake, a baby's cheek).
Fuwa Fuwa: Light, airy, might float away (e.g., clouds, bubbles, whipped cream).
Comparison: A thick down comforter is fukkura; a single feather is fuwa fuwa.
ふっくら (Fukkura) vs. もちもち (Mochi Mochi)
Fukkura: Focuses on the outward volume and softness.
Mochi Mochi: Focuses on the internal springiness and chewiness.
Comparison: Freshly steamed rice is fukkura; a pounded rice cake is mochimochi.

そのパンは外は ふっくら 、中はもちもちだ。 (That bread is plump on the outside and chewy on the inside.)

ふっくら (Fukkura) vs. ぽっちゃり (Potchari)
Fukkura: Describes the quality of being plump (often used for objects or specific body parts like cheeks).
Potchari: Describes a person's overall body type (chubby/curvy) in a cute or neutral way.
Comparison: You would say a baby has fukkura cheeks, but you might describe the baby as potchari as a whole.
ふっくら (Fukkura) vs. ぷるぷる (Puru Puru)
Fukkura: Soft and airy volume.
Puru Puru: Jiggling, jelly-like texture.
Comparison: A well-cooked omelet is fukkura; a gelatin dessert is puru puru.

唇を ふっくら させるリップグロス。 (A lip gloss that makes your lips look plump.)

ふっくら (Fukkura) vs. まるまる (Maru Maru)
Fukkura: Softness is the key.
Maru Maru: Roundness is the key.
Comparison: A fukkura cushion is soft; a maru-maru puppy is just round and cute (regardless of softness).
Understanding these alternatives allows you to be much more precise. Use fukkura when you want to emphasize that something has risen or filled out with a soft, inviting quality that implies health, freshness, or comfort.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The 'fu' sound in Japanese is actually produced by passing air between the lips without rounding them, which linguistically mimics the very airiness that 'fukkura' describes!

발음 가이드

UK /fɯk.kɯ.ɾa/
US /fʊk.kʊ.ɾɑ/
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. Fukkura generally has a flat (Heiban) accent or a slight drop after the 'ku', depending on regional dialects.
라임이 맞는 단어
さくら (sakura) まくら (makura) いくら (ikura) あくら (akura) うくら (ukura) おくら (okura) かくら (kakura) きくら (kikura)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'fu' as an English 'foo' with rounded lips (Japanese 'fu' is unrounded).
  • Ignoring the double 'k' (it should be fuk-kura, not fukura).
  • Pronouncing 'ra' like an English 'r' with the tongue curled back.
  • Over-stressing one syllable; Japanese syllables usually have equal length.
  • Mixing it up with 'fukura' (which is not a common word in this context).

난이도

독해 2/5

The word is written in Hiragana, making it very easy to read once you know the characters.

쓰기 2/5

Writing in Hiragana is simple; just remember the small 'tsu' for the double 'k'.

말하기 3/5

Getting the rhythm of the double 'k' and the light 'r' takes some practice for English speakers.

듣기 3/5

Can be confused with other 'fu-' starting mimetic words if not paying attention to the ending.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

柔らかい (yawarakai) - Soft 膨らむ (fukuramu) - To swell ご飯 (gohan) - Rice パン (pan) - Bread ほっぺ (hoppe) - Cheeks

다음에 배울 것

ふわふわ (fuwa fuwa) - Fluffy もちもち (mochimochi) - Chewy ぷるぷる (puru puru) - Jiggling ぱんぱん (pan-pan) - Tightly full ふくよか (fukuyoka) - Plump (formal)

고급

肉厚 (nikuatsu) - Fleshy/thick 弾力 (danryoku) - Elasticity 風合い (fuai) - Texture/feel loft (for down products) キメ (kime) - Skin texture

알아야 할 문법

Onomatopoeia as Adverbs

ふっくら（と）焼く (To bake plumply). The 'to' is optional but adds emphasis.

State-of-being with 'shite iru'

ふっくらしている (Is in a plump state). Used for current descriptions.

Adjectival use with 'shita'

ふっくらしたパン (A plump bread). 'Shita' acts like a past participle turned adjective.

Causative 'saseru' with Mimetic words

肌をふっくらさせる (To make the skin plump). Used for actions that cause the state.

Noun-forming suffix '-kan'

ふっくら感 (The sense of plumpness). Common in reviews and ads.

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수준별 예문

1

このパンはふっくらしています。

This bread is plump and soft.

Subject + wa + fukkura shite-imasu (polite state).

2

ごはんがふっくら炊けました。

The rice was cooked to be plump.

Fukkura + verb (taketa) describes the result.

3

赤ちゃんのほっぺはふっくらしている。

The baby's cheeks are plump.

Fukkura shite-iru describes a natural physical state.

4

ふっくらしたおにぎりを作ります。

I will make plump rice balls.

Fukkura shita + noun (onigiri).

5

この枕はふっくらで気持ちいい。

This pillow is plump and feels good.

Fukkura used as a noun-like descriptor with 'de'.

6

ふっくら焼けたパンが好きです。

I like plumply baked bread.

Fukkura + yakketa (baked) + noun.

7

お餅がふっくら膨らみました。

The mochi swelled up plumply.

Fukkura + fukuramu (to swell).

8

ふっくらした猫がいます。

There is a plump cat.

Fukkura shita is a gentle way to say 'chubby' for animals.

1

洗濯物が太陽でふっくら乾いた。

The laundry dried plumply in the sun.

Adverbial use describing the result of drying.

2

ふっくらしたタオルは使い心地がいい。

Plump towels are comfortable to use.

Fukkura shita modifying 'taoru'.

3

このダウンジャケットはふっくらしている。

This down jacket is plump (lofty).

Describes the 'loft' or airiness of the garment.

4

ホットケーキがふっくらと焼けましたね。

The pancakes were baked plumply, weren't they?

Fukkura to + verb (yakketa).

5

新しい布団はふっくらしていて暖かい。

The new futon is plump and warm.

Fukkura shite-ite (te-form for connecting sentences).

6

ふっくらしたハンバーグを作りたいです。

I want to make a plump hamburger patty.

Describes the desired volume of the meat.

7

猫の足がふっくらしていて可愛い。

The cat's paws are plump and cute.

Focuses on the soft volume of the paws.

8

ふっくらと膨らんだパン生地。

Bread dough that has risen plumply.

Fukkura to + fukuranda (past tense of swell).

1

うなぎの身がふっくらとしていて絶品だ。

The eel meat is plump and superb.

Describes the high quality of grilled fish texture.

2

この美容液を使うと、肌がふっくらします。

Using this serum makes your skin plump.

Common phrase in beauty and skincare.

3

春の訪れとともに、梅のつぼみがふっくらしてきた。

With the arrival of spring, the plum buds have become plump.

Describes the swelling of nature in spring.

4

柔軟剤のおかげで、セーターがふっくら仕上がった。

Thanks to the fabric softener, the sweater came out plump.

Fukkura shiagaru is a common resultative phrase.

5

彼はふっくらした温かい手で握手した。

He shook hands with a plump, warm hand.

Implies a gentle or kind personality through texture.

6

厚焼き玉子をふっくら焼くコツを教えてください。

Please tell me the secret to baking a plump Japanese omelet.

Fukkura + yaku (to bake/grill) + noun.

7

このクッションは中綿がたっぷりでふっくらしている。

This cushion has plenty of stuffing and is plump.

Explains the cause of the fukkura state (plenty of stuffing).

8

ふっくらとした雲が空に浮かんでいる。

Plump clouds are floating in the sky.

Used for clouds that look solid and soft, not wispy.

1

お米の芯まで水分が行き渡り、ふっくらと炊き上がっている。

The moisture has reached the center of the rice, and it is cooked up plumply.

More technical description of cooking results.

2

彼女のふっくらとした優しげな顔立ちに癒やされる。

I am healed by her plump and gentle facial features.

Links physical appearance (plumpness) to an emotional effect (healing).

3

古い羽毛布団をリフォームして、ふっくら感が戻った。

I refurbished the old down futon, and the plump feeling returned.

Fukkura-kan (the feeling/sense of being plump).

4

このパンは、天然酵母の力でふっくらと膨らんでいる。

This bread has risen plumply due to the power of natural yeast.

Fukkura to fukurande-iru (state of having risen).

5

唇に潤いを与え、ふっくらとした魅力的な口元にする。

Moisturize the lips to create a plump and attractive mouth area.

Fukkura shita modifying a complex noun phrase.

6

冬眠前のリスが、木の実を食べてふっくらしている。

The squirrel is plump from eating nuts before hibernation.

Describes healthy weight gain in animals.

7

職人の手によって、座布団がふっくらと均一に仕上げられた。

The floor cushions were finished plumply and uniformly by the craftsman.

Describes professional skill in achieving texture.

8

蒸したての饅頭は、皮がふっくらしていて甘い香りがする。

The freshly steamed buns have a plump skin and a sweet aroma.

Describes the ideal state of steamed food.

1

その詩の中では、春の土壌がふっくらと息づいている様子が描かれている。

In that poem, the way the spring soil is plumply breathing is depicted.

Literary use for earth/nature.

2

加齢とともに失われがちな肌のふっくらとしたハリを取り戻す。

Regain the plump elasticity of the skin that tends to be lost with age.

Formal/medical marketing terminology.

3

煮魚をふっくらと仕上げるには、火加減が最も重要である。

To finish boiled fish plumply, the heat control is most important.

Instructional/technical cooking context.

4

彼女のふっくらとした筆致からは、温厚な人柄がにじみ出ている。

From her plump (rounded/soft) brushwork, her gentle personality exudes.

Metaphorical use for artistic style (brushwork).

5

このタオル地は、特殊な撚糸技術によりふっくらとした風合いを実現している。

This towel fabric achieves a plump texture through special yarn-twisting technology.

Technical/manufacturing context.

6

焼きたてのナンがふっくらと膨らみ、食欲をそそる。

The freshly baked naan swells up plumply, whetting the appetite.

Describing foreign food with Japanese sensory words.

7

ふっくらとしたシルエットのブラウスが今年の流行だ。

Blouses with a plump (voluminous/soft) silhouette are in fashion this year.

Fashion/design context describing silhouette.

8

干し椎茸をじっくり戻すと、驚くほどふっくらと肉厚になる。

When you slowly rehydrate dried shiitake, they become surprisingly plump and thick-fleshed.

Describes the transformation of texture.

1

生命の躍動を象徴するかのように、新芽がふっくらと産声を上げている。

As if symbolizing the throbbing of life, the new buds are plumply giving their first cry.

Highly metaphorical and poetic personification.

2

伝統的な和菓子には、ふっくらとした造形の中に四季の移ろいが込められている。

In traditional Japanese sweets, the transition of the four seasons is embedded within their plump forms.

Cultural/aesthetic commentary.

3

その文体はふっくらとしていて、読者を包み込むような抱擁力がある。

The writing style is plump (soft/full), possessing an embracing power that wraps around the reader.

Abstract metaphorical use for prose style.

4

土壁のふっくらとした質感が、この古い民家に独特の温もりを与えている。

The plump texture of the earthen walls gives this old folk house a unique warmth.

Architectural/material aesthetic description.

5

熟練の職人が打った蕎麦は、茹で上がるとふっくらとした艶を放つ。

Soba noodles made by a master craftsman emit a plump luster once boiled.

Refined description of high-end culinary craft.

6

胎児のふっくらとした輪郭がエコー画面に映し出された。

The plump outline of the fetus was projected onto the ultrasound screen.

Scientific yet emotionally resonant description.

7

厳冬を越えた大地が、春の陽光を浴びてふっくらと緩んでいく。

The earth, having survived the severe winter, plumply loosens up under the spring sunlight.

Describing the physical change of the environment.

8

ふっくらとした雲海が山並みを覆い、幻想的な風景を創り出していた。

A plump sea of clouds covered the mountain range, creating a mystical landscape.

Geographical/scenic description.

자주 쓰는 조합

ふっくら炊き上がる
ふっくらしたほっぺ
ふっくら焼き上げる
ふっくらとした肌
ふっくら仕上がる
ふっくらした身
ふっくら膨らむ
ふっくらとした笑顔
ふっくらとした手
ふっくらした質感

자주 쓰는 구문

ふっくらご飯

— Plump, perfectly cooked rice. A staple phrase in Japanese homes.

ふっくらご飯は日本人の誇りです。

ふっくらパン

— Soft, airy bread. Often used in bakery names or advertisements.

毎朝、ふっくらパンを食べています。

ふっくら肌

— Plump, youthful skin. A target state for many skincare routines.

ふっくら肌を目指して保湿する。

ふっくらタオル

— Thick, soft towels. Often associated with luxury or good laundry habits.

ふっくらタオルで顔を拭く。

ふっくらおにぎり

— Gently squeezed rice balls that maintain air between the grains.

コンビニのふっくらおにぎりが好きだ。

ふっくら魚

— Fish that is cooked so the meat remains thick and moist.

炭火で焼くとふっくら魚になる。

ふっくら布団

— A thick, airy futon that provides excellent comfort.

ふっくら布団でぐっすり眠る。

ふっくら唇

— Full, hydrated lips, often a beauty standard.

リップでふっくら唇を作る。

ふっくらシルエット

— A clothing design that has soft volume.

ふっくらシルエットのスカート。

ふっくら感

— The overall sensation or quality of being plump.

この素材のふっくら感がたまらない。

자주 혼동되는 단어

ふっくら vs ふっくら (fukkura) vs ふくら (fukura)

Fukura is not a word on its own; fukura-hagi is the calf of the leg. Don't drop the 'tsu'!

ふっくら vs ふっくら (fukkura) vs ぷっくり (pukkuri)

Pukkuri is for smaller, tighter swellings like a mosquito bite or cute lips. Fukkura is for larger, softer things.

ふっくら vs ふっくら (fukkura) vs ぶよぶよ (buyo buyo)

Buyo buyo is negative, meaning flabby or soft in an unappealing way. Fukkura is always positive.

관용어 및 표현

"ふっくらと煮る"

— To simmer something until it becomes soft and plump (often beans or fish).

黒豆をふっくらと煮る。

Culinary
"ふっくらと膨らませる"

— To puff something up or make it rise (literal or metaphorical).

期待をふっくらと膨らませる。

Figurative
"ふっくらとした心"

— A warm, generous, and 'soft' heart/personality.

彼女はふっくらとした心の持ち主だ。

Literary
"ふっくらと実る"

— To bear fruit in a plump, healthy way.

稲穂がふっくらと実った。

Agricultural
"ふっくらとした筆致"

— A style of calligraphy or writing that is rounded and soft.

ふっくらとした筆致で手紙を書く。

Artistic
"ふっくらとした福顔"

— A plump, happy face that looks like it brings good fortune.

彼はふっくらとした福顔をしている。

Cultural
"ふっくらと仕上げる"

— To give a final touch that ensures softness and volume.

卵焼きをふっくらと仕上げる。

General
"ふっくらとした春の兆し"

— The soft, burgeoning signs of spring (like buds).

ふっくらとした春の兆しを感じる。

Poetic
"ふっくらとした温もり"

— A soft, enveloping warmth.

おばあちゃんの家のふっくらとした温もり。

Descriptive
"ふっくらと形を整える"

— To shape something so it looks plump and attractive.

クッションをふっくらと形を整える。

General

혼동하기 쉬운

ふっくら vs ふわふわ

Both describe softness.

Fuwa fuwa is light like air/clouds; Fukkura has volume and substance like bread.

わたあめはふわふわ、おにぎりはふっくら。

ふっくら vs ぱんぱん

Both describe being full.

Pan-pan is tight/bursting; Fukkura is soft/yielding.

お腹がぱんぱん、布団がふっくら。

ふっくら vs もちもち

Both used for food textures.

Mochimochi is chewy/stretchy; Fukkura is airy/plump.

うどんはもちもち、ご飯はふっくら。

ふっくら vs ぽっちゃり

Both describe roundness in people.

Potchari is a body type; Fukkura is a texture/state of features.

彼はぽっちゃりした体型で、ふっくらした顔だ。

ふっくら vs ぷるぷる

Both are soft textures.

Puru puru is jiggling/jelly-like; Fukkura is airy/puffed.

ゼリーはぷるぷる、パンはふっくら。

문장 패턴

A1

[Noun] は ふっくら しています。

このパンはふっくらしています。

A2

ふっくら（と）した [Noun]

ふっくらしたタオル。

B1

[Noun] が ふっくら（と） [Verb-Past]

ご飯がふっくらと炊けた。

B1

[Noun] を ふっくら（と）させる

肌をふっくらさせる。

B2

[Noun] の ふっくら感

パンのふっくら感。

B2

ふっくら（と）した [Abstract Noun]

ふっくらした笑顔。

C1

ふっくら（と） [Verb-Adverbial]

ふっくらと息づく。

C2

ふっくら（と） [Metaphorical Verb]

春の陽気がふっくらと大地を包む。

어휘 가족

명사

ふっくら感 (fukkura-kan) - The sense or quality of plumpness.
ふっくら度 (fukkura-do) - The degree of plumpness.

동사

ふっくらする (fukkura suru) - To be/become plump.
ふっくらさせる (fukkura saseru) - To make something plump.

형용사

ふっくらした (fukkura shita) - Plumped / having the quality of plumpness.

관련

ふくらむ (fukuramu) - To swell.
ふくらます (fukuramasu) - To inflate.
ふくよか (fukuyoka) - Plump/buxom (formal/polite).
ふっくらもちもち (fukkura mochimochi) - Plump and chewy.
ふっくらふわふわ (fukkura fuwa fuwa) - Plump and fluffy.
무료 가입하고 모든 예문 보기

사용법

frequency

Very high in daily life, especially regarding food, beauty, and comfort.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'fukkura' for something hard but round. → Using 'maru-maru' or 'koro-koro'.

    Fukkura requires softness. A marble is round, but never fukkura.

  • Using 'fukkura' for a very thin, light object. → Using 'fuwa fuwa'.

    Fukkura implies a certain thickness or 'meatiness.' A single tissue is fuwa fuwa, but not fukkura.

  • Saying 'fukura' instead of 'fukkura'. → ふっくら (fukkura).

    The small 'tsu' (double consonant) is essential. 'Fukura' is not a standard descriptive word.

  • Using 'fukkura' for a negative swelling (like an injury). → Using 'harete-iru' or 'pan-pan'.

    Fukkura is a positive word for health and beauty. An injury isn't fukkura.

  • Confusing 'fukkura' with 'mochimochi' for noodles. → Using 'mochimochi'.

    Noodles are chewy, not airy-plump. Rice is fukkura, udon is mochimochi.

팁

Cooking Tip

When writing a recipe in Japanese, use 'fukkura to' to describe the ideal result of steaming or baking. It tells the reader the dish should look voluminous and soft.

Rhythm is Key

The small 'tsu' in 'fukkura' is like a tiny hiccup. Practice saying 'fu' [pause] 'kura' to get the geminate consonant right. It sounds much more natural.

The Rice Standard

If you want to compliment a Japanese host on their rice, say 'Gohan ga fukkura shite-ite oishii desu!' It's the highest praise for their cooking technique.

Skincare Vocabulary

Look for the word 'fukkura' (ふっくら) on Japanese face masks or lotions. It usually means the product is designed for deep hydration and anti-aging.

Softness Goal

To get 'fukkura' towels, Japanese people often shake them 10-20 times before hanging them to dry to lift the fibers. This is called 'fukkura-shase'.

Adverb vs Adjective

Remember: 'fukkura to' + Verb, but 'fukkura shita' + Noun. This is a very common pattern for all Japanese gitaigo.

Baby Talk

It's a very safe and cute word to use when talking to or about babies. 'Fukkura shite-te kawaii ne!' will always be well-received.

Spring Watching

During cherry blossom season, you can describe the buds that are just about to open as 'fukkura.' It shows you appreciate the beauty of the process, not just the bloom.

Product Reviews

When reading reviews for pillows or winter coats, look for 'fukkura.' If it has a high 'fukkura-kan,' it's likely a very comfortable and high-quality product.

Poetic Touch

In creative writing, use 'fukkura' to describe clouds or hills to give them a gentle, inviting personality.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Full' (fu) 'Cooker' (kura). When the rice cooker is full, the rice inside is fukkura!

시각적 연상

Imagine a giant, soft white marshmallow that you gently press and it slowly bounces back. That 'bounce back' volume is fukkura.

Word Web

Rice Bread Cheeks Pillows Towels Buds Clouds Fish

챌린지

Go through your kitchen and find three things that are 'fukkura.' Then, go to your bedroom and find two things. Say 'Kore wa fukkura shite iru' for each one.

어원

Fukkura is an onomatopoeic word (gitaigo) that likely evolved from the verb 'fukuramu' (to swell). The 'fu' sound has long been associated with air, blowing, and lightness in the Japanese language. The structure of repeating or doubling consonants is a common feature in Japanese mimetic words to emphasize the physical state.

원래 의미: The original sense was likely related to the visual and tactile sensation of something swelling up with air or moisture.

Japanese (Onomatopoeia)

문화적 맥락

When used for people, it is a euphemism for being overweight. While polite, it should be used carefully to avoid offending those sensitive about their weight.

In English, we might use several different words like 'fluffy,' 'plump,' 'soft,' or 'lofty' depending on the item. 'Fukkura' covers all of these if the 'soft volume' nuance is present.

Often used in Ghibli films to describe the food, which is famous for looking 'fukkura' and delicious. A common keyword in 'Gourmet' manga like 'Oishinbo'. Used in 'Anpanman' to describe the bread-headed hero's face.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At a Bakery

  • ふっくらしたパン
  • ふっくら焼き上がる
  • ふっくら感を楽しむ
  • 中がふっくら

Cooking Rice at Home

  • お米をふっくら炊く
  • ふっくら炊き上がった
  • ふっくらご飯
  • ふっくらさせるコツ

Watching a Skincare Ad

  • ふっくらした肌
  • 肌をふっくらさせる
  • ふっくらハリ肌
  • 潤いでふっくら

Doing Laundry

  • タオルがふっくら
  • ふっくら仕上げる
  • ふっくらした布団
  • ふっくら感を戻す

Describing a Baby

  • ふっくらしたほっぺ
  • ふっくらした手足
  • ふっくらして可愛い
  • ふっくらした赤ちゃん

대화 시작하기

"このパン、すごくふっくらしていて美味しそうじゃないですか？ (Doesn't this bread look so plump and delicious?)"

"どうすればご飯をこんなにふっくら炊けるんですか？ (How can you cook rice to be this plump?)"

"新しい柔軟剤を使ったら、タオルがふっくらしましたよ。 (The towels became plump after using a new fabric softener.)"

"赤ちゃんのほっぺって、どうしてこんなにふっくらしているんでしょうね。 (I wonder why babies' cheeks are so plump.)"

"最近、肌のふっくら感がなくなってきた気がして悩んでいます。 (Lately, I'm worried that my skin is losing its plumpness.)"

일기 주제

今日食べたものの中で、一番「ふっくら」していたものは何ですか？その食感を詳しく書いてみましょう。 (What was the most 'fukkura' thing you ate today? Describe that texture in detail.)

あなたが「ふっくら」という言葉を聞いて、一番最初に思い浮かべるものは何ですか？ (What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word 'fukkura'?)

「ふっくら」したタオルや布団に包まれると、どんな気持ちになりますか？ (How do you feel when wrapped in a plump towel or futon?)

理想的な「ふっくら」ご飯を炊くための、あなたなりのこだわりはありますか？ (Do you have any special techniques for cooking the ideal plump rice?)

あなたの周りに「ふっくら」した笑顔が素敵な人はいますか？その人について書いてください。 (Is there someone around you with a lovely, soft smile? Write about them.)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Yes, but be careful. It's a polite way to say someone is chubby or has a round face. It's best used for babies or to describe someone's kind, soft appearance. If said to an adult woman, she might think you are commenting on her weight gain.

'Fuwa fuwa' bread is very light and squishy, like white sandwich bread. 'Fukkura' bread is well-risen and has a good, healthy volume. Often, good bread is both!

It is an onomatopoeic word, so it's less common in academic papers, but it is very common in professional marketing, food reviews, and literature.

You use the causative form: 'fukkura saseru'. For example, 'Kono kurimu wa hada o fukkura sasemasu' (This cream makes the skin plump).

Not really. A balloon is 'fukurande-iru' (swollen/inflated), but it's usually 'pan-pan' (tight). 'Fukkura' implies a soft, cushiony texture that a balloon doesn't have.

Almost always. It suggests health, quality, and comfort. The only time it might be slightly awkward is if someone is very sensitive about their weight.

Yes, especially for fish or hamburger patties. It means the meat is thick, juicy, and hasn't shrunk or dried out during cooking.

'Beta-beta' (sticky/mushy) or 'pasa-pasa' (dry/hard). 'Fukkura' rice is the perfect middle ground.

No, it is almost exclusively written in Hiragana. Occasionally you might see it in Katakana for emphasis in ads, but Hiragana is standard.

Metaphorically, yes. A 'fukkura shita kimochi' would be a warm, soft, and comfortable feeling, like being wrapped in a blanket.

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Write a sentence using 'fukkura' to describe bread.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a baby's cheeks using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about rice using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

How would you describe a soft towel using 'fukkura'?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'fukkura' to describe a flower bud in spring.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Kono pan wa fukkura shite-ite oishii desu.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain in Japanese what 'fukkura' means using simple words.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the word: 'Fukkura'. Does it sound like air or water?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence for a skincare product using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a winter futon using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'fukkura' to describe grilled fish.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about a cat using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a pancake using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'fukkura' in a sentence about laundry.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a person's hands using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about a cushion.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'fukkura' to describe rehydrating mushrooms.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a smile using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about a down jacket.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe an omelet using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'fukkura' to describe the earth/soil.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a cloud using 'fukkura'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about a steamed bun.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Akachan no hoppe wa fukkura shite-iru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Gohan ga fukkura takemashita.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Kono taoru wa fukkura shite-ite kimochi ii.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Hada o fukkura saseru kurimu.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura shita egao ga suteki desu ne.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Pan kiji ga fukkura to fukuranda.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Uunagi no mi ga fukkura shite-iru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura to shita tsubomi ga haru o tsugeru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura-kan no aru futon de nemuru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Hambagu o fukkura yaku kotsu wa?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Kono daun jaketto wa fukkura shite-iru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura to shiagatta nizakana.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Neko no ashi ga fukkura shite-iru.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura to shita hikki de namae o kaku.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Kono jusshokuhin wa hada o fukkura sasemasu.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura to shita kumo ga kirei da.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Tamagoyaki o fukkura yaku.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Fukkura shita onigiri o tsukurou.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Fuwa fuwa'. Which one sounds more solid?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Pan-pan'. Which one sounds softer?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Peshanko'. Which one sounds bigger?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Gari-gari'. Which one sounds healthier?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Beta-beta'. Which one is better for rice?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Mochimochi'. Which one is for air-filled things?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Togatta'. Which one is safer to touch?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Buyo-buyo'. Which one is a compliment?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Kachikachi'. Which one is for a pillow?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Zarazara'. Which one is smoother?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Pasa-pasa'. Which one has more moisture?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Tsurutsuru'. Which one is more voluminous?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Showa-showa'. Which one is for bread?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Fukkura' vs 'Karikari'. Which one is soft?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

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