At the A1 level, 'sushi' is one of the first nouns you learn. It is treated as a simple label for the famous Japanese food. Learners focus on basic sentences like 'Sushi o tabemasu' (I eat sushi) and 'Sushi ga suki desu' (I like sushi). The goal is to identify the food and express basic preferences. You might also learn the word 'sushi-ya' for a sushi restaurant. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the different types of sushi; just being able to recognize the word and the kanji 寿司 is a great start. It is a 'global' word, so the barrier to entry is very low.
At the A2 level, you begin to expand your vocabulary to include the different forms of sushi. You learn terms like 'nigiri,' 'maki,' and 'kaitenzushi.' You can now describe your experience using simple adjectives: 'Kono sushi wa oishii desu' (This sushi is delicious) or 'Sono sushi-ya wa takai desu' (That sushi restaurant is expensive). You also start to use the word with more complex particles, such as 'sushi o tabe ni iku' (go to eat sushi). You might also learn the basic etiquette of using soy sauce (shoyu) and wasabi. This level is about moving from simple identification to basic social interaction involving sushi.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable discussing sushi in more detail. You can explain what sushi is to someone who doesn't know: 'Sushi wa, su-meshi to sakana no ryouri desu' (Sushi is a dish of vinegared rice and fish). You start to understand the cultural context, such as why sushi is eaten on special occasions. You can also handle more complex ordering situations, such as asking for 'wasabi-nuki' (without wasabi) or 'osusume' (recommendation). You begin to notice the use of the honorific 'o' (O-sushi) and when it is appropriate to use it. Your ability to describe flavors and textures (like 'puripuri' for firm shrimp) improves.
At the B2 level, you can engage in nuanced conversations about sushi. You might discuss the difference between 'Edomae-zushi' and 'Kansai-fū sushi.' You can understand and use technical terms like 'shari' (rice) and 'neta' (topping). You are aware of the seasonality of sushi and can talk about 'shun' (peak season) for different fish. You can also read more complex menus and understand descriptions of how the fish was prepared (e.g., 'aburi' for seared). At this level, you can also discuss the globalization of sushi and how 'California rolls' differ from traditional Japanese sushi, using appropriate comparative language.
At the C1 level, you understand the deep historical and philosophical aspects of sushi. You can discuss the evolution of sushi from 'narezushi' to the modern era. You are familiar with the concept of 'omakase' (leaving it to the chef) and can interact with a sushi master using sophisticated language. You understand the subtleties of sushi rice preparation, including the type of vinegar (akazu vs. komezu) used. You can read literature or watch documentaries about sushi masters and understand the specialized vocabulary used in the trade. You can also express opinions on the ethics of sushi, such as sustainable fishing, in fluent Japanese.
At the C2 level, your knowledge of 'sushi' is near-native. You can appreciate the poetic and artistic descriptions of sushi in high-end food criticism. You understand the regional variations across all prefectures of Japan, from Hokkaido's 'kaisendon' styles to Toyama's 'masuzushi.' You can engage in professional-level discussions about the chemistry of fermentation in traditional sushi or the business models of global sushi chains. You can use 'sushi' in metaphors or idiomatic expressions effortlessly. Your mastery includes not just the word, but the entire cultural, historical, and technical ecosystem that the word 寿司 represents.

寿司 30초 만에

  • Sushi is a Japanese dish featuring vinegared rice.
  • It often includes raw fish but can also feature cooked items.
  • The word 'sushi' specifically refers to the prepared rice.
  • Commonly served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

The word 寿司 (Sushi) is perhaps the most internationally recognized Japanese word, but its linguistic and culinary depth goes far beyond the simple definition of 'raw fish.' In its most fundamental sense, sushi refers to a specific Japanese dish consisting of small portions of vinegared rice, known as shari, usually topped with various ingredients like seafood, vegetables, or egg, which are collectively called neta. Contrary to popular Western belief, the term 'sushi' actually describes the rice itself—the word is historically rooted in the archaic Japanese term for 'sour,' reflecting the fermentation process used in its earliest forms. When you use this word in Japan, you are evoking a tradition that spans over a millennium, from its origins as a way to preserve fish in fermented rice to the modern, artistic Edomae style that dominates high-end dining today.

Cultural Significance
Sushi is considered the pinnacle of Japanese culinary craftsmanship, representing a balance of aesthetics, seasonality, and technical precision. It is used in both casual settings like conveyor belt restaurants and formal ritualistic dining.
Linguistic Nuance
While written as 寿司 today, the kanji are 'ateji'—characters chosen for their auspicious sounds (longevity and management) rather than their literal meaning. It is often preceded by the honorific 'o' to become 'O-sushi.'

今晩は、家族で寿司を食べに行きましょう。(Tonight, let's go eat sushi with the family.)

People use the word 'sushi' in a variety of contexts. In a professional setting, an executive might invite a client to a high-end sushi bar to build rapport. In a domestic setting, parents might buy a 'sushi set' from a supermarket for a quick, healthy dinner. Because sushi is deeply tied to the seasons, the word is often paired with specific seasonal fish names, such as buri (yellowtail) in winter or katsuo (bonito) in spring. Understanding 'sushi' involves understanding the concept of shun—the moment when an ingredient is at its peak flavor. When a Japanese person says, 'The sushi was good,' they are often commenting on the temperature of the rice, the freshness of the fish, and the balance of the vinegar, all of which are encapsulated in this single noun.

Historically, the word has evolved from narezushi (fermented fish) to hayazushi (quick sushi). By the early 19th century in Edo (modern Tokyo), it became the fast food of the masses, sold at street stalls. This historical transition informs how the word is perceived today: it is both a luxury and a staple. The sheer variety of sushi—from nigiri (hand-pressed) to maki (rolled) and chirashi (scattered)—means that the word 'sushi' acts as a broad umbrella term for an entire category of cuisine rather than a single specific dish.

Using 寿司 (Sushi) correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of basic Japanese particles and common verbs associated with dining. The most frequent verb paired with sushi is taberu (to eat), but in more formal or polite situations, itadaku (to receive/eat) is used. When you want to say you like sushi, the pattern [Noun] + ga suki desu is the standard. For example, 'Sushi ga suki desu' means 'I like sushi.' To emphasize that you especially like a certain type, you might say, 'Maguro no sushi ga suki desu' (I like tuna sushi).

The Honorific 'O'
In polite conversation, especially among women or in service industries, the word is often 'O-sushi' (お寿司). This adds a layer of refinement and respect to the food.

おすすめの寿司屋を教えてください。(Please tell me a recommended sushi restaurant.)

When discussing the act of making sushi, the verb nigiru (to grip/mold) is specifically used for nigiri sushi. You wouldn't say you 'make' (tsukuru) sushi in a professional context as often as you would say the chef 'grips' (nigiru) the sushi. For example, 'Taishou ga sushi o nigiru' (The master chef is molding the sushi). If you are at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, you might use the term kaitenzushi. In this context, sentences often revolve around taking plates: 'Kaitenzushi de sushi o toru' (Taking sushi at a conveyor belt restaurant).

Adjectives used with sushi often describe its quality or temperature. Oishii (delicious) is the go-to, but shinsen (fresh) is equally vital. You might hear someone say, 'Kono sushi wa totemo shinsen desu ne' (This sushi is very fresh, isn't it?). In negative sentences, such as expressing a dislike or allergy, you would say, 'Sushi wa taberaremasen' (I cannot eat sushi). This is more polite than saying 'sushi ga kirai desu' (I hate sushi), which can be quite blunt in Japanese culture.

The word 寿司 (Sushi) is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, but the auditory experience of the word changes depending on the environment. In a high-end sushi-ya, you will hear the word spoken with reverence. The chef might announce the 'Sushi no neta' (the sushi toppings) with pride. In contrast, at a kaitenzushi (conveyor belt) joint, the word is shouted by staff in greetings like 'Irasshaimase! O-sushi douzo!' (Welcome! Please have some sushi!). You will also hear it in television commercials, often paired with the sound of splashing water or the sharp 'shaku' sound of a knife, emphasizing freshness.

Supermarket Announcements
Supermarkets frequently announce discounts on 'sushi-pakku' (sushi packs) in the evening. 'Sushi zen-hin han-gaku!' (All sushi items half price!) is a common phrase heard around 8 PM.

「今日のランチは寿司にしようか。」「いいね、賛成!」('Shall we have sushi for today's lunch?' 'Sounds good, I agree!')

In popular culture, particularly anime and drama, sushi is often portrayed as a celebratory meal. When a character gets a promotion or passes an exam, the phrase 'Iwai ni sushi o tabeyou' (Let's eat sushi to celebrate) is a trope. You will also hear it in travel shows where hosts visit coastal towns known for 'minato-sushi' (harbor sushi). In these contexts, the word is usually associated with luxury and local pride. Even in casual conversations between friends, asking 'Sushi, hikeru?' (Can you do sushi? / Are you up for sushi?) is a common way to suggest a meal out.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make is equating 寿司 (Sushi) exclusively with raw fish. As mentioned, the 'sushi' is the rice. If you order 'sushi' and expect only fish, you might be surprised to find cucumber rolls (kappamaki) or cooked eel (unagi). Another frequent error is confusing sushi with sashimi. Sashimi is just the sliced raw fish without the rice. If you tell a waiter you want 'sushi' but you don't want rice, you are actually asking for 'sashimi.' This distinction is crucial for both clarity and etiquette.

Wasabi Misuse
Dissolving a large amount of wasabi into your soy sauce is often considered a mistake in high-end sushi dining. The chef usually applies the 'sabi' (wasabi) between the rice and the fish in the perfect amount.

寿司は魚だけです。(Sushi is only fish.) — This is incorrect; the rice is the defining element.

Etiquette mistakes are also common. For instance, dipping the rice side of the nigiri into soy sauce is a major faux pas. The rice absorbs too much sauce and falls apart. The correct way is to flip the piece and dip the fish (neta) side. Additionally, many beginners think they must use chopsticks for sushi. While common, it is perfectly acceptable—and sometimes preferred—to eat nigiri sushi with your hands. However, sashimi must always be eaten with chopsticks. Understanding these subtle rules helps you use the word and the dish correctly in social situations.

While 寿司 (Sushi) is the general term, there are many specific words that learners should know to sound more natural and precise. Depending on the style and preparation, you might choose a different word. For example, Chirashizushi (scattered sushi) is a bowl of rice topped with various ingredients, often served at home or for festivals like Hinamatsuri. Inarizushi is sushi rice stuffed into seasoned deep-fried tofu pouches, which is much sweeter and usually vegetarian.

Sushi vs. Sashimi
Sushi involves vinegared rice; Sashimi is just the raw ingredient. Sashimi is never called sushi.
Nigiri vs. Maki
Nigiri is hand-pressed mounds of rice; Maki is rolled in seaweed (nori). Both are types of sushi.

Another alternative is Oshizushi (pressed sushi), a specialty of Osaka where the rice and fish are pressed into a wooden mold. This has a firmer texture and a different flavor profile than the Tokyo-style Edomae-zushi. If you are looking for a quick snack that isn't quite sushi, you might look for Onigiri (rice balls). While both involve rice, onigiri rice is plain or salted, not vinegared, and the fillings are usually inside rather than on top. Distinguishing between these helps you navigate a Japanese menu with confidence and shows a deeper respect for the culinary culture.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji 寿司 are actually 'ateji' (phonetic substitutes) that mean 'longevity' and 'to manage/administer,' chosen for their lucky connotations.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈsuːʃi/
US /ˈsuːʃi/
In Japanese, 'sushi' has a 'High-Low' pitch accent (Atamadaka). The 'su' starts high and 'shi' drops low.
라임이 맞는 단어
Pushy Cushy Bushy Mushy Slushy Gushy Tushy Rushy
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'su' as 'syu'.
  • Over-emphasizing the second syllable.
  • Pronouncing the 'i' in 'shi' too long like 'sheeee'.
  • Adding a 'z' sound like 'su-zhi'.
  • Ignoring the pitch accent.

난이도

독해 2/5

The kanji 寿司 are common but the 'ateji' usage is slightly irregular for beginners.

쓰기 3/5

Writing the kanji 寿 and 司 requires some practice to get the balance right.

말하기 1/5

The word is internationally known and easy to pronounce.

듣기 1/5

Easily recognizable in almost any context.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

魚 (Fish) ご飯 (Rice) 食べる (To eat) 好き (Like) 日本 (Japan)

다음에 배울 것

刺身 (Sashimi) わさび (Wasabi) 醤油 (Soy sauce) 海苔 (Seaweed) 箸 (Chopsticks)

고급

江戸前 (Edomae) おまかせ (Omakase) 旬 (Shun) 熟成 (Aging) 隠し包丁 (Decorative cutting)

알아야 할 문법

Noun + ga suki (Liking something)

寿司が好きです。

Verb '-mashou' (Let's do something)

寿司を食べましょう。

Noun + ni suru (Deciding on something)

晩ご飯は寿司にします。

Noun + o kudasai (Please give me...)

お寿司をください。

Particle 'de' for means/instrument

箸で寿司を食べます。

수준별 예문

1

寿司が好きです。

I like sushi.

Uses the 'ga suki' pattern for preference.

2

寿司を食べます。

I eat sushi.

Basic subject-object-verb structure.

3

これは寿司ですか?

Is this sushi?

Simple question with 'desu ka'.

4

寿司は美味しいです。

Sushi is delicious.

Topic marker 'wa' with an adjective.

5

お寿司を一つください。

One sushi, please.

Uses honorific 'o' and counter 'hitotsu'.

6

寿司屋へ行きます。

I am going to a sushi restaurant.

Directional particle 'e' (pronounced 'e').

7

明日は寿司です。

Tomorrow is sushi (day/meal).

Time noun + 'wa' + noun + 'desu'.

8

寿司と魚が好きです。

I like sushi and fish.

Connecting nouns with 'to' (and).

1

回転寿司に行きましょう。

Let's go to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant.

Volitional form 'mashou'.

2

どんな寿司が好きですか?

What kind of sushi do you like?

Using 'donna' to ask for specific types.

3

わさび抜きの寿司を頼みました。

I ordered sushi without wasabi.

Compound noun 'wasabi-nuki'.

4

この寿司は新鮮ではありません。

This sushi is not fresh.

Negative form of 'desu' with a na-adjective.

5

寿司を箸で食べます。

I eat sushi with chopsticks.

Instrumental particle 'de'.

6

昨日、お寿司を食べました。

I ate sushi yesterday.

Past tense 'tabemashita'.

7

寿司は日本で有名です。

Sushi is famous in Japan.

Location particle 'de' + 'yuumei' (famous).

8

スーパーで寿司を買いました。

I bought sushi at the supermarket.

Verb 'kaimashita' (bought).

1

寿司の作り方を習いたいです。

I want to learn how to make sushi.

'-kata' suffix for 'way of doing'.

2

寿司は、酢飯と魚を使います。

Sushi uses vinegared rice and fish.

Listing components of a dish.

3

お祝いの時に寿司を食べることが多いです。

We often eat sushi on celebratory occasions.

'-koto ga ooi' for frequency.

4

寿司を食べる時は、醤油をつけすぎないでください。

When eating sushi, please don't dip it in too much soy sauce.

Negative request 'naide kudasai'.

5

日本に来て初めて寿司を食べました。

I ate sushi for the first time after coming to Japan.

'-te hajimete' construction.

6

寿司の種類はたくさんあります。

There are many types of sushi.

Noun 'shurui' (type/kind).

7

ベジタリアンのための寿司もありますか?

Is there sushi for vegetarians too?

'-no tame no' (for the sake of).

8

寿司を食べすぎて、お腹がいっぱいです。

I ate too much sushi and my stomach is full.

'-sugiru' for excess.

1

江戸前寿司の伝統を守るのは大変です。

It is difficult to preserve the tradition of Edomae sushi.

Nominalizing a sentence with 'no wa'.

2

寿司職人になるためには、長い修行が必要です。

Long training is necessary to become a sushi chef.

'-tame ni wa' for purpose/requirement.

3

旬の魚を使った寿司は格別です。

Sushi made with seasonal fish is exceptional.

Relative clause modifying 'sushi'.

4

回転寿司は手軽に寿司が楽しめる場所です。

Kaitenzushi is a place where you can easily enjoy sushi.

Potential form 'tanoshimeru'.

5

最近では、海外でも本格的な寿司が食べられます。

Lately, authentic sushi can be eaten even abroad.

Adverb 'saikin' and potential 'taberareru'.

6

寿司のネタによって、合うお酒が違います。

The matching alcohol differs depending on the sushi topping.

'-ni yotte' (depending on).

7

この店は、寿司だけでなく一品料理も充実しています。

This shop has not only sushi but also a full range of side dishes.

'-dake naku ... mo' (not only ... but also).

8

寿司の歴史を調べると、意外な事実が分かります。

If you research the history of sushi, you'll discover surprising facts.

Conditional '-to' for natural consequence.

1

寿司の真髄は、シャリとネタの一体感にあります。

The essence of sushi lies in the sense of unity between the rice and the topping.

Abstract noun 'shinzui' (essence).

2

高級寿司店では、おまかせコースが一般的です。

At high-end sushi restaurants, the 'omakase' course is common.

Formal term 'ippanteki' (common/general).

3

職人の技術が、寿司の味を左右すると言っても過言ではありません。

It's no exaggeration to say that the chef's skill determines the taste of the sushi.

Set phrase 'to ittemo kagon dewa arimasen'.

4

寿司を通じて、日本の四季を感じることができます。

Through sushi, one can feel the four seasons of Japan.

'-o tsuujite' (through/via).

5

伝統的な寿司の技法を継承する若者が減っています。

The number of young people inheriting traditional sushi techniques is decreasing.

Verb 'keishou suru' (to inherit/succeed).

6

寿司は今や、世界共通の食文化として定着しています。

Sushi has now established itself as a globally shared food culture.

Adverbial 'ima ya' (now/by now).

7

赤酢を使った寿司は、独特のコクと風味があります。

Sushi using red vinegar has a unique richness and flavor.

Technical term 'akazu' (red vinegar).

8

寿司の美しさは、引き算の美学に基づいています。

The beauty of sushi is based on the aesthetics of subtraction.

'-ni motozuite' (based on).

1

熟成寿司の奥深さは、門外漢には到底理解し難いものです。

The depth of aged sushi is something that outsiders find extremely difficult to understand.

Term 'mongaikan' (outsider/layman) and suffix '-gatai'.

2

銀座の老舗寿司店には、凛とした空気が漂っています。

A dignified atmosphere pervades the long-established sushi restaurants of Ginza.

Adjective 'rin to shita' (dignified/sharp).

3

寿司という小宇宙の中に、日本人の精神性が凝縮されています。

Within the microcosm of sushi, the Japanese spirituality is condensed.

Metaphorical use of 'shouchuu' (microcosm).

4

一流の職人は、客の体調や好みを察して寿司を握り分けます。

A top-tier chef molds sushi differently, sensing the customer's physical condition and preferences.

Verb 'nigiri-wakeru' (to mold differently).

5

寿司の普及に伴い、魚介資源の枯渇が懸念されています。

With the spread of sushi, there are concerns about the depletion of seafood resources.

'-ni tomonai' (along with/accompanying).

6

その寿司は、口の中でシャリがハラリとほどける絶妙な握り加減でした。

The sushi was molded so perfectly that the rice crumbled gently in the mouth.

Onomatopoeia 'harari' and noun 'kagen' (degree/state).

7

寿司文化の変遷を辿れば、日本社会の移り変わりが見えてきます。

Tracing the transition of sushi culture reveals the changes in Japanese society.

Conditional '-eba' for logical deduction.

8

究極の寿司とは、素材の持ち味を最大限に引き出したものに他なりません。

The ultimate sushi is nothing other than that which brings out the inherent flavor of the ingredients to the maximum.

'-ni hoka narimasen' (nothing other than).

자주 쓰는 조합

寿司を握る
寿司を注文する
寿司を摘まむ
新鮮な寿司
高級な寿司
寿司を頬張る
寿司を並べる
寿司に醤油をつける
寿司のお供
寿司三昧

자주 쓰는 구문

寿司屋

— A sushi restaurant or shop.

近所の寿司屋へ行く (Going to the local sushi shop).

回転寿司

— Conveyor belt sushi.

回転寿司は子供に人気です (Kaitenzushi is popular with children).

江戸前寿司

— Traditional Tokyo-style sushi.

江戸前寿司の技法 (Techniques of Edomae sushi).

握り寿司

— Hand-pressed sushi pieces.

握り寿司の盛り合わせ (Assorted nigiri sushi).

巻き寿司

— Rolled sushi with nori.

巻き寿司をお弁当に入れる (Putting rolled sushi in a lunchbox).

ちらし寿司

— Scattered sushi in a bowl.

雛祭りにちらし寿司を作る (Making chirashi sushi for Doll's Festival).

いなり寿司

— Sushi rice in tofu pouches.

いなり寿司は甘くて美味しい (Inari sushi is sweet and tasty).

押し寿司

— Pressed sushi from Osaka/Kansai.

箱に入った押し寿司 (Pressed sushi in a box).

手巻き寿司

— Hand-rolled sushi (at home).

家族で手巻き寿司パーティー (Hand-roll sushi party with family).

おまかせ寿司

— Sushi chosen by the chef.

今日はおまかせ寿司にする (Having the chef's choice sushi today).

자주 혼동되는 단어

寿司 vs 刺身 (Sashimi)

Sashimi is just fish; Sushi must have vinegared rice.

寿司 vs おにぎり (Onigiri)

Onigiri uses plain rice; Sushi uses vinegared rice.

寿司 vs 海鮮丼 (Kaisendon)

Kaisendon is seafood over plain rice; Sushi is seasoned.

관용어 및 표현

"寿司詰め"

— Packed like sushi (extremely crowded).

満員電車は寿司詰め状態だ (The crowded train is packed like sushi).

Common
"腐っても鯛"

— Even if it's rotten, it's still sea bream (quality remains). Often used with fish/sushi.

彼は落ちぶれたが、腐っても鯛だ (He has fallen, but he still has class).

Literary
"棚からぼたもち"

— Unexpected luck. Sometimes used in contexts of finding good food/sushi unexpectedly.

おごりで寿司が食べられるなんて、棚からぼたもちだ (Eating sushi on someone else's dime is like a windfall).

Common
"板に付く"

— To look natural in a role (originally from sushi chefs/actors).

彼の料理姿も板に付いてきた (His cooking posture has become natural).

Common
"まな板の上の鯉"

— A carp on the cutting board (completely at someone's mercy).

今はまな板の上の鯉だ (Now I am at their mercy).

Literary
"海老で鯛を釣る"

— To catch a sea bream with a shrimp (getting a big profit from a small investment).

安いお土産で寿司をご馳走になったのは、海老で鯛を釣るようだ (Getting treated to sushi for a cheap souvenir is like catching a bream with a shrimp).

Common
"魚心あれば水心"

— If the fish is willing, the water is willing (reciprocity).

魚心あれば水心で、協力し合おう (Let's cooperate based on mutual goodwill).

Literary
"煮ても焼いても食えない"

— Cannot be boiled or grilled (a person who is difficult to deal with).

あの男は煮ても焼いても食えない (That man is impossible to handle).

Common
"水を得た魚"

— Like a fish in water (being in one's element).

彼は舞台の上では水を得た魚のようだ (He is like a fish in water on stage).

Common
"捕らぬ狸の皮算用"

— Counting raccoon skins before catching them (don't count your chickens). Often used in business contexts involving food supplies.

寿司が売れると見込んで仕入れるのは、捕らぬ狸の皮算用だ (Stocking up assuming sushi will sell is counting skins before catching the raccoon).

Common

혼동하기 쉬운

寿司 vs

Same pronunciation.

Usually refers specifically to fish sushi in high-end shops.

高級な鮨店。

寿司 vs

Same pronunciation.

Used for fermented or preserved types of sushi.

なれ鮓。

寿司 vs

Sounds like the first syllable.

'Su' means vinegar, which is used in sushi.

酢を入れる。

寿司 vs 涼しい

Sounds similar (Suzushii).

Means 'cool' (weather).

今日は涼しい。

寿司 vs 少し

Sounds similar (Sukoshi).

Means 'a little bit'.

少し食べます。

문장 패턴

A1

[Noun] ga suki desu.

寿司が好きです。

A1

[Noun] o tabemasu.

寿司を食べます。

A2

[Noun] ni ikimashou.

寿司屋に行きましょう。

A2

[Noun] wa [Adjective] desu.

この寿司は美味しいです。

B1

[Noun] no tsukurikata.

寿司の作り方。

B1

[Noun] o tabeta koto ga arimasu.

寿司を食べたことがあります。

B2

[Noun] ni yotte chigaimasu.

寿司のネタによって違います。

C1

[Noun] o tsuujite [Verb].

寿司を通じて文化を学びます。

어휘 가족

명사

寿司屋 (Sushi-ya)
寿司職人 (Sushi-shokunin)
寿司種 (Sushi-tane)
寿司桶 (Sushi-oke)

동사

寿司を握る (Sushi o nigiru)
寿司を巻く (Sushi o maku)

형용사

寿司っぽい (Sushi-ppoi - sushi-like)

관련

刺身 (Sashimi)
酢飯 (Sumeshi)
醤油 (Shoyu)
山葵 (Wasabi)
がり (Gari)

사용법

frequency

Extremely High (Top 500 words).

자주 하는 실수
  • Calling sashimi 'sushi'. Sashimi.

    Sushi requires rice. Without rice, it is sashimi.

  • Dipping the rice in soy sauce. Dip the fish side.

    Rice absorbs too much sauce and falls apart.

  • Mixing all the wasabi into the soy sauce. Put wasabi on the fish.

    In high-end shops, it ruins the chef's balanced flavors.

  • Thinking sushi is only raw fish. Sushi is vinegared rice with various toppings.

    Many types are cooked or vegetarian.

  • Using 'tsukuru' for professional sushi making. Nigiru.

    Professionals 'mold' (nigiru) rather than just 'make' (tsukuru).

The One-Bite Rule

Sushi is designed to be eaten in one bite. Biting a piece in half is often seen as messy because the rice might crumble. If a piece is too big, it's better to eat it whole or ask the chef to make it smaller.

Using 'O'

Adding 'O' to 'Sushi' (O-sushi) is a great way to sound more polite. It shows respect for the food and is very common in polite Japanese society.

Drink Green Tea

Always drink the provided green tea (agari). Its bitterness helps cut through the fattiness of the fish and cleanses your mouth for the next piece.

Eat Seasonally

Ask for 'shun no sakana' (fish in season). Seasonal fish is not only tastier but often more affordable because it is plentiful.

Learn the Kanji

The kanji for sushi (寿司) are very common. Learning them will help you identify sushi shops instantly on any Japanese street.

Start Light

It is traditional to start with lighter, white-fleshed fish (shiromi) and move toward heavier, fattier fish (like toro) or stronger flavors (like eel).

No Wasabi?

If you can't handle spice, say 'Wasabi-nuki de' (Without wasabi, please). No one will judge you, and it ensures you enjoy your meal.

The Chef's Choice

If you are at a counter, try to interact with the chef. Saying 'Oishii desu' (It's delicious) goes a long way in building rapport.

Counting Pieces

While 'hitotsu' works, using 'ichi-kan' (one piece) or 'ni-kan' (two pieces) makes you sound much more like a pro.

Allergy Check

If you have an allergy, say '[Ingredient] arerugii ga arimasu.' This is vital when eating sushi with many hidden ingredients.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'SUE' (the name) and 'SHE' (the pronoun). Sue and she went to eat sushi. The 'su' is the rice, and 'shi' is the fish!

시각적 연상

Imagine a small 'S' shaped piece of fish sitting on a 'U' shaped mound of rice, followed by a 'SHI' shaped strip of seaweed.

Word Web

Fish Rice Vinegar Japan Wasabi Soy Sauce Ginger Chopsticks

챌린지

Try to name five different types of sushi toppings (neta) in Japanese, such as maguro, sake, or ebi.

어원

The word 'sushi' comes from the archaic Japanese adjective 'sushi' (酸し), meaning 'sour' or 'acidic.' This refers to the sour taste of the fermented rice used to preserve fish in ancient times.

원래 의미: Sour-tasting (referring to fermented rice).

Japonic (Old Japanese).

문화적 맥락

Be aware that while 'sushi' is global, calling non-rice dishes 'sushi' can be seen as a misunderstanding of Japanese culture.

In the West, 'sushi' often implies 'rolls' (maki) with many ingredients like avocado or cream cheese, which are less common in traditional Japanese sushi.

Jiro Dreams of Sushi (Documentary) The 'California Roll' (Invention in North America) Tsukiji Fish Market (Famous origin)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At a Sushi Restaurant

  • おまかせでお願いします
  • わさび抜きで
  • 本日のお勧めは?
  • お会計をお願いします

At a Supermarket

  • 寿司パック
  • 盛り合わせ
  • 半額シール
  • お箸を付けてください

Home Party

  • 手巻き寿司パーティー
  • ネタを準備する
  • 酢飯を作る
  • 海苔で巻く

Travel/Tourism

  • 地元の寿司
  • 漁港の近く
  • 名物寿司
  • 築地市場

Cultural Discussion

  • 寿司の歴史
  • 伝統的な技法
  • 海外の寿司
  • 職人の修行

대화 시작하기

"一番好きな寿司のネタは何ですか? (What is your favorite sushi topping?)"

"最近、美味しい寿司屋に行きましたか? (Have you been to a good sushi restaurant lately?)"

"回転寿司と回らない寿司、どちらが好きですか? (Do you prefer conveyor belt sushi or regular sushi?)"

"わさびは大丈夫ですか? (Are you okay with wasabi?)"

"寿司を手で食べますか、それとも箸で食べますか? (Do you eat sushi with your hands or chopsticks?)"

일기 주제

今日食べた寿司の感想を書いてください。 (Write your impressions of the sushi you ate today.)

初めて寿司を食べた時のことを思い出して書いてください。 (Recall and write about the first time you ate sushi.)

自分でお寿司を作るとしたら、どんなネタを使いたいですか? (If you were to make sushi yourself, what toppings would you use?)

寿司が世界中で人気な理由は何だと思いますか? (Why do you think sushi is popular all over the world?)

寿司職人の仕事についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the work of a sushi chef?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No, sushi refers to the vinegared rice. Many types of sushi use cooked ingredients like egg (tamago), boiled shrimp (ebi), or grilled eel (unagi). Some are entirely vegetarian, like cucumber rolls (kappamaki).

No, it is traditional and perfectly acceptable to eat nigiri sushi with your hands. However, sashimi should always be eaten with chopsticks. In casual settings, most people use whatever they are comfortable with.

The pickled ginger, called 'gari,' is used as a palate cleanser between different types of fish. It helps you appreciate the unique flavor of each piece of sushi without the previous one lingering.

In casual conveyor belt restaurants, it's common. However, in high-end sushi shops, the chef has already put the perfect amount of wasabi inside the sushi. Mixing it into the sauce can be seen as disrespectful to the chef's balance.

Omakase means 'I leave it to you.' It is a dining style where the chef chooses the best seasonal ingredients and serves them piece by piece. It is the best way to experience high-end sushi.

The rice is seasoned with vinegar, salt, and sugar. Historically, this was to help preserve the fish, but now it is the defining flavor profile that complements the seafood.

Neta refers to the topping or filling of the sushi, usually seafood. The quality and freshness of the neta are what determine the price and taste of the sushi.

Shari is the professional term for sushi rice. A good sushi chef spends years learning how to prepare the perfect shari, as it is the foundation of the dish.

Generally, yes. It is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the fish. However, the rice contains sugar and salt, and some modern rolls can be high in calories due to sauces and fried ingredients.

For nigiri, you should flip it slightly and dip the fish side into the sauce. Dipping the rice side causes it to absorb too much sauce and break apart.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Write 'I like sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I eat sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Let's go to a sushi restaurant' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'This sushi is delicious' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I want to make sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Sushi is famous Japanese food' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The chef molds the sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Fresh sushi is the best' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Sushi represents the four seasons' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I prefer the chef's choice' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Is this sushi?' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Sushi without wasabi, please' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I often eat sushi on birthdays' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Depending on the fish, the taste changes' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The history of sushi is very deep' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'One sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Conveyor belt sushi is fun' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Please teach me how to eat sushi' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I want to become a sushi chef' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Traditional techniques are important' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I like sushi' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Sushi, please' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Let's eat sushi' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'This is fresh' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Without wasabi, please' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I've eaten sushi' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'What is today's recommendation?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I want to be a sushi chef' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I'll have the Omakase' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Sushi is a part of Japanese culture' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'One sushi' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Is it delicious?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I like tuna sushi' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The rice is good' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The balance is perfect' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Thank you for the meal' (after eating sushi).

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I'm going to a sushi shop'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Sushi is expensive'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I'll eat with my hands'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The fish is in season'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Sushi ga suki desu'. What was said?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Sushi o tabemasu'. What was said?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Wasabi-nuki de'. What was the request?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Kaitenzushi ni ikou'. Where are they going?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Shinsen na neta desu'. What is fresh?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Agari o kudasai'. What do they want?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Shari ga oishii'. What is delicious?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Omakase ni shimasu'. What did they decide?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Akazu no kaori'. What is the smell of?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Shokunin no waza'. What is being praised?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'O-sushi'. What is the word?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Oishii'. What does it mean?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Gari'. What is that?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Nigiri'. What type of sushi?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to: 'Murasaki'. What is the slang for?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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