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A1 noun #1,500 most common 13 min read

飲み物

nomimono Top 1,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 飲み物 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 飲み物 in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'nomimono' is one of the first nouns you learn. It is essential for basic survival and social interaction. You use it to identify what you want to drink in a restaurant or at a convenience store. At this stage, you should focus on the basic structure: 'Nomimono wa nan desu ka?' (What is the drink?) and 'Nomimono o kudasai' (A drink, please). You will also learn to pair it with simple adjectives like 'oishii' (delicious) or 'tsumetai' (cold). The goal is to recognize the word in spoken Japanese and be able to use it to fulfill basic needs. You don't need to worry about complex honorifics yet, though you will likely hear 'o-nomimono' from staff. Just knowing that 'nomimono' means 'drink' is the primary objective. You should also be able to list a few specific examples of 'nomimono' like 'mizu' (water), 'o-cha' (tea), and 'kōhī' (coffee). Understanding that it is a combination of 'nomi' (drink) and 'mono' (thing) can help you remember it and also prepare you for learning 'tabemono' (food). Practice saying the word clearly with four distinct beats: no-mi-mo-no.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'nomimono' in more descriptive sentences. You can now use the 'no' particle to link it with other nouns, such as 'Nihon no nomimono' (Japanese drinks) or 'kafe no nomimono' (the cafe's drinks). You also start using more varied adjectives, like 'atatakai' (warm), 'amai' (sweet), or 'nigai' (bitter). You should be able to express preferences, such as 'Suki na nomimono wa kōra desu' (My favorite drink is cola). At this level, you also learn to use 'nomimono' with verbs other than 'nomu', such as 'kau' (buy), 'motsu' (carry/have), or 'tsukuru' (make). You might also encounter the word in simple signs or menus. You should be comfortable hearing 'O-nomimono wa ikaga desu ka?' in a restaurant and responding appropriately. This level also introduces the concept of 'nomimono' in the context of a 'set menu' (setto). You should be able to ask if a drink is included in the price: 'Nomimono wa tsuite imasu ka?'. Your ability to categorize drinks into 'hot' and 'cold' becomes more natural, and you can handle basic social situations where drinks are offered.

At the B1 level, you move beyond simple needs and start using 'nomimono' in more complex grammatical structures. You can use relative clauses to describe drinks, such as 'Watashi ga kinou nonda nomimono' (The drink I drank yesterday). You also begin to understand the social nuances of the word. You know when to use the honorific 'o-nomimono' to show politeness to a guest or a superior. You can participate in conversations about health and lifestyle, using phrases like 'Karada ni ii nomimono' (Drinks that are good for the body). You also start to encounter synonyms like 'dorinku' and understand that 'dorinku' is often used in modern, commercial contexts like 'dorinku bā' (drink bar). You can explain why you like or dislike certain drinks using 'kara' or 'node' (because). For example, 'Amai nomimono wa kenkou ni yokunai node, hikaete imasu' (I'm cutting back because sweet drinks aren't good for health). You are also more aware of the cultural context, such as the importance of tea in Japanese hospitality. You can handle more detailed interactions in a restaurant, such as asking for a drink to be brought at a specific time (e.g., with the meal or after the meal).

At the B2 level, your use of 'nomimono' becomes more sophisticated and context-aware. You can use the word in formal settings, such as business meetings or official ceremonies, where 'o-nomimono' is the standard. You understand the difference between 'nomimono' and 'inryou' (beverage/fluid) and can choose the appropriate word based on the register. You can discuss the environmental impact of 'nomimono' containers, such as plastic bottles (petto botoru) and cans (kan). You are able to understand and use idiomatic expressions or more advanced collocations, such as 'nomimono o dasu' (to serve a drink) or 'nomimono o motenasu' (to entertain with drinks). You can also follow more complex instructions or explanations involving drinks, such as a recipe for a traditional Japanese beverage or a description of a wine's characteristics. Your reading skills allow you to understand detailed articles about the 'nomimono' industry in Japan, including trends in the vending machine market or the popularity of new craft beers. You can also express subtle nuances, such as the difference between a 'refreshing' (sawayaka na) drink and a 'rich' (koujun na) one.

At the C1 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'nomimono' and its various synonyms. You can use the word in academic or professional discussions about Japanese culture, economy, or health. You understand the historical evolution of 'nomimono' in Japan, from the introduction of tea by monks to the modern explosion of vending machine culture. You can use 'inryou' fluently in technical contexts, such as discussing 'inryousui' (potable water) safety standards. You are sensitive to the stylistic choices between 'nomimono', 'dorinku', and 'sake'. You can appreciate and analyze the use of 'nomimono' in Japanese literature or film as a symbol of hospitality, tension, or social class. You can engage in deep cultural discussions, such as the 'nomikai' (drinking party) culture and its role in corporate Japan, and how 'nomimono' serves as a social lubricant. Your vocabulary includes rare or specialized terms for specific types of drinks, and you can explain these to others. You can also write sophisticated essays or reports that involve the concept of 'nomimono', using a wide range of kanji and formal grammatical structures.

At the C2 level, you possess a mastery of 'nomimono' that allows you to use it with the same nuance and flexibility as a highly educated native speaker. You can navigate any social or professional situation involving drinks with ease, from a casual gathering to a formal state banquet. You understand the most subtle connotations of the word and can use it creatively in writing or speech. You are familiar with archaic or highly specialized terms for drinks used in classical literature or specific traditional arts like the tea ceremony (chado). You can discuss the philosophical aspects of 'nomimono' in the context of Japanese aesthetics, such as the concept of 'wabi-sabi' in a simple cup of tea. You can also analyze the linguistic structure of compound words like 'nomimono' and compare them with similar structures in other languages. Your ability to switch between registers—from the most polite 'keigo' to the most casual slang—is seamless. You can act as a bridge between cultures, explaining the deep-seated cultural significance of 'nomimono' in Japan to non-Japanese speakers with precision and depth. You are essentially indistinguishable from a native speaker in your understanding and application of this word.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

飲み物 in 30 Seconds

Nomimono is the standard Japanese word for 'drink' or 'beverage', essential for ordering at restaurants and daily life.
It is a compound of 'nomi' (to drink) and 'mono' (thing), making it easy to remember alongside 'tabemono' (food).
In polite settings, it often becomes 'o-nomimono' to show respect to guests or customers in the service industry.
It covers all types of liquids, including water, tea, soda, and alcohol, and is frequently categorized by temperature.

The Japanese word 飲み物 (のみもの - nomimono) is a fundamental noun that every beginner learner encounters early in their journey. At its most basic level, it translates to 'drink' or 'beverage' in English. However, understanding its full utility requires looking at its linguistic construction. It is a compound word formed from the stem of the verb 飲む (nomu), meaning 'to drink', and the noun 物 (mono), meaning 'thing' or 'object'. Therefore, it literally translates to 'drinking thing'. This logical structure is common in Japanese, seen also in 食べ物 (tabemono) for food (eating thing) and 買い物 (kaimono) for shopping (buying thing).

Broad Application: Nomimono covers everything from a simple glass of water (mizu) to complex cocktails or traditional matcha tea. Whether you are at a vending machine, a high-end restaurant, or a friend's house, this is the go-to term for referring to liquids intended for consumption.

In Japanese social culture, offering a nomimono is the first step of hospitality (omotenashi). When a guest arrives at a home or office, the host will almost immediately ask about their preference for a drink. This isn't just about thirst; it's about making the guest feel welcome and settled. The word itself can take the honorific prefix 'o', becoming お飲み物 (o-nomimono), which is the standard form used by staff in restaurants or by hosts to show respect to their guests.

何か温かい飲み物はいかがですか？ (Nanika atatakai nomimono wa ikaga desu ka? - Would you like something warm to drink?)

Daily Life Context: You will encounter this word daily. Japan is famous for its high density of vending machines (jidou hanbaiki), which are essentially 'nomimono' dispensers. From canned coffee to corn soup (which is technically a drink in this context), the variety is immense. Understanding this word helps you navigate these machines and convenience stores (konbini) where the 'nomimono' aisle is usually the largest.

この自動販売機には珍しい飲み物がたくさんあります。 (Kono jidou hanbaiki ni wa mezurashii nomimono ga takusan arimasu. - There are many rare drinks in this vending machine.)

Furthermore, the term is essential for dietary discussions. If someone asks about your allergies or preferences, they might ask, 'Nomimono wa nani ga ii desu ka?' (What kind of drink would you like?). It is a safe, polite, and universally understood term that bridges the gap between casual and formal settings depending on the presence of the 'o' prefix.

Categorization: Japanese people often categorize nomimono by temperature: tsumetai (cold) or atsui/atatakai (hot). In summer, the demand for 'tsumetai nomimono' like mugicha (barley tea) skyrockets, while winter sees a shift toward 'atatakai nomimono' like hot green tea or canned cocoa.

冷たい飲み物を飲みすぎて、お腹を壊しました。 (Tsumetai nomimono o nomisugite, onaka o kowashimashita. - I drank too many cold drinks and upset my stomach.)

ランチセットの飲み物はコーヒーにしてください。 (Ranchi setto no nomimono wa kōhī ni shite kudasai. - Please make the drink for the lunch set a coffee.)

In summary, 'nomimono' is more than just a word for liquid; it is a gateway to Japanese social interaction, dining etiquette, and daily survival. Whether you are parched on a hot Tokyo afternoon or sitting down for a formal business meeting, this word will be your constant companion.

Using 飲み物 (nomimono) in a sentence is relatively straightforward because it functions as a standard noun. However, the nuance changes significantly based on the particles and verbs you pair it with. The most common particle associated with it is を (o), the object marker, used when you are performing an action on the drink, such as buying, drinking, or choosing it.

Basic Subject/Object Usage: To say 'I bought a drink', you would say 'Nomimono o kaimashita'. To ask 'What is your favorite drink?', you use the topic marker は (wa): 'Suki na nomimono wa nan desu ka?'. Note that 'suki na' (favorite/liked) is an adjective modifying the noun.

一番好きな飲み物は緑茶です。 (Ichiban suki na nomimono wa ryokucha desu. - My favorite drink is green tea.)

When you are in a restaurant, the usage becomes more ritualized. The staff will use the honorific o. They might say, 'O-nomimono wa kesshin saremashita ka?' (Have you decided on your drinks?). As a customer, you don't need to use the 'o' when referring to your own choice, but it's not wrong to do so to sound more polite. A common pattern for ordering is '[Drink Name] to iu nomimono' (A drink called [Drink Name]) if you are referring to something obscure, but usually, you just name the drink directly.

Descriptive Patterns: You can use various adjectives to describe nomimono. 'Tsumetai' (cold to the touch), 'Atsui' (hot), 'Amai' (sweet), or 'Nigai' (bitter). These adjectives come directly before the noun: 'Amai nomimono' (a sweet drink).

甘い飲み物はあまり好きではありません。 (Amai nomimono wa amari suki de wa arimasen. - I don't really like sweet drinks.)

In more advanced contexts, 'nomimono' can be part of a relative clause. For example, 'Watashi ga yoku kau nomimono' (The drink that I often buy). Here, the entire phrase 'Watashi ga yoku kau' acts as an adjective for 'nomimono'. This is a powerful way to provide more detail in your Japanese conversations.

Quantity and Counting: When counting drinks, you don't usually count 'nomimono' itself. Instead, you count the containers. Use 'ippai, nihai' for glasses/cups, or 'hon, bon, pon' for bottles/cans. Example: 'Nomimono o nihai kudasai' (Two drinks, please).

パーティーのために、たくさんの飲み物を用意しました。 (Pātī no tame ni, takusan no nomimono o youbi shimashita. - I prepared many drinks for the party.)

冷蔵庫に何か飲み物がある？ (Reizouko ni nanika nomimono ga aru? - Is there anything to drink in the fridge?)

Finally, remember that 'nomimono' is a collective noun. While in English we might say 'drinks' (plural), in Japanese, 'nomimono' remains the same whether you are talking about one bottle of water or a whole cellar of wine. Context and counters provide the plurality.

If you visit Japan, 飲み物 (nomimono) is a word you will hear within minutes of leaving the airport. Its presence is ubiquitous across various sectors of society. The most prominent place is the service industry. In restaurants, from the humblest ramen shop to the most expensive kaiseki establishment, the question of what you want to drink is central to the dining experience.

The Restaurant Experience: Upon being seated, a waiter will often bring a 'oshibori' (wet towel) and water, then ask: 'O-nomimono wa ikaga desu ka?' (How about a drink?). In an Izakaya (Japanese pub), the first order is almost always a drink, usually accompanied by the phrase 'Toriaezu biru!' (Beer for now!), but the category they are ordering from is the 'nomimono' section.

こちらのメニューから飲み物をお選びください。 (Kochira no menyū kara nomimono o o-erabi kudasai. - Please choose a drink from this menu.)

Another place where this word is constantly heard is in transportation. On long-distance trains like the Shinkansen, a food cart often passes through the aisles. The attendant will announce their arrival by listing their wares: 'Obentou, o-nomimono, ikaga desu ka?' (Would you like a lunch box or a drink?). Similarly, on airplanes, flight attendants will use this word during the beverage service.

Public Announcements and Signage: In public spaces like parks, museums, or theaters, you will see signs regarding 'nomimono'. For example, 'Nomimono no mochikomi wa go-enryo kudasai' (Please refrain from bringing outside drinks). This is a formal way of saying 'No outside beverages allowed'. You will also see it on trash cans, which are often split into 'bin/kan' (bottles/cans) and 'sonota no nomimono' (other drink containers).

劇場内での飲み物の摂取は禁止されています。 (Gekijounai de no nomimono no sesshu wa kinshi sarete imasu. - Consumption of drinks inside the theater is prohibited.)

In the corporate world, 'nomimono' appears during meetings. It is standard practice to provide bottled tea or water to all participants. An assistant might enter the room and say, 'O-nomimono o shitsurei shimasu' (Excuse me, here are the drinks). This ritual is a key part of Japanese business etiquette.

Television and Media: On variety shows or in commercials, you will hear 'nomimono' used to describe new products. A commercial for a new soda might call it 'Atarashii kankaku no nomimono' (A drink with a new sensation). Health shows often discuss 'karada ni ii nomimono' (drinks that are good for your body), like vinegar drinks or specific herbal teas.

夏にぴったりのさわやかな飲み物をご紹介します。 (Natsu ni pittari no sawayaka na nomimono o go-shoukai shimasu. - We will introduce a refreshing drink perfect for summer.)

このカフェは飲み物の種類が豊富です。 (Kono kafe wa nomimono no shurui ga houfu desu. - This cafe has a wide variety of drinks.)

In conclusion, 'nomimono' is a word that bridges the gap between the physical act of drinking and the social rituals of Japanese life. From the loud calls of a stadium vendor to the quiet whisper of a tea ceremony assistant, it is a word that signals refreshment and hospitality.

While 飲み物 (nomimono) is a relatively simple word, English speakers often make several common errors when integrating it into their Japanese. The most frequent mistake is confusing the noun 'nomimono' with the verb 'nomu' (to drink) or its various forms. For example, a beginner might say 'Nomimono o nomu' (Drink a drink), which is grammatically correct but often redundant. In Japanese, it's more natural to just say 'Mizu o nomu' (Drink water) or 'Nanika nomu' (Drink something).

The 'O' Honorific Confusion: Learners often struggle with when to use 'o-nomimono' versus 'nomimono'. A common mistake is using 'o-nomimono' when talking about your own drink in a casual setting. While not a 'grave' error, it can sound overly formal or even slightly feminine/childish depending on the context. Rule of thumb: use 'o-nomimono' when offering to others or in a professional service context, and 'nomimono' for yourself or with close friends.

❌ 私のお飲み物はコーラです。 (Watashi no o-nomimono wa kōra desu.)
✅ 私の飲み物はコーラです。 (Watashi no nomimono wa kōra desu.)

Another mistake involves the categorization of certain items. In English, we might consider soup a 'food', but in Japan, thin soups like Miso soup are sometimes referred to in the context of 'nomimono' because they are sipped from a bowl without a spoon. However, thick stews are definitely 'tabemono'. Using 'nomimono' for a chunky beef stew would be a mistake.

Particle Misuse: Learners often use the particle 'ni' when they should use 'o'. For example, 'Nomimono ni kaimasu' is incorrect. It should be 'Nomimono o kaimasu'. The particle 'ni' is used when choosing something: 'Nomimono wa kōhī ni shimasu' (I'll go with coffee for the drink).

❌ 飲み物に買いたい。 (Nomimono ni kaitai.)
✅ 飲み物を買いたい。 (Nomimono o kaitai.)

A subtle mistake is the over-reliance on 'nomimono' when a specific word is more appropriate. In formal writing or medical contexts, the word 飲料 (inryou) is preferred. Using 'nomimono' in a scientific paper about water quality would be seen as too colloquial. Conversely, using 'inryou' at a party would sound unnaturally stiff.

Plurality Pitfalls: English speakers often try to pluralize 'nomimono' by adding suffixes like '-tachi', which is only for people. 'Nomimono-tachi' is incorrect. To express 'various drinks', use 'iroiro na nomimono' or 'takusan no nomimono'.

❌ 飲み物たちがあります。 (Nomimono-tachi ga arimasu.)
✅ いろいろな飲み物があります。 (Iroiro na nomimono ga arimasu.)

❌ 飲み物はどこですか？ (Nomimono wa doko desu ka? - Where is the drink? - sounds like you lost a specific one)
✅ 飲み物売り場はどこですか？ (Nomimono uriba wa doko desu ka? - Where is the drink section?)

Finally, be careful with the word sake. While 'sake' is a 'nomimono', in English 'sake' refers specifically to rice wine. In Japanese, 'o-sake' refers to all alcohol. If you ask for a 'nomimono' and mean alcohol, you should specify 'o-sake'.

While 飲み物 (nomimono) is the most common term, Japanese has several synonyms and related terms that are used in specific contexts. Understanding these will help you sound more natural and precise.

飲料 (Inryou): This is the formal, technical term for 'beverage' or 'drinkable liquid'. You will see it on product labels, in legal documents, or in news reports. For example, 'inryousui' means 'drinking water'. It is rarely used in casual conversation.

この川の水は飲料には適していません。 (Kono kawa no mizu wa inryou ni wa tekishite imasen. - The water in this river is not suitable for drinking.)

Another common alternative is the loanword ドリンク (dorinku). This is borrowed from the English 'drink'. It is very common in modern Japanese, especially in marketing. You'll see 'energy drinks' (enerugī dorinku) or 'drink bars' (dorinku bā) in family restaurants where you get unlimited refills. 'Dorinku' often feels more modern or 'cool' than 'nomimono'.

水分 (Suibun): Literally 'water part' or 'moisture'. This is used when talking about hydration. Doctors will tell you to 'suibun o toru' (take in fluids). It's not a synonym for 'a drink' you enjoy, but rather the biological necessity of liquid.

熱中症予防のために、こまめに水分を補給してください。 (Netchuushou yobou no tame ni, komame ni suibun o hokyuu shite kudasai. - To prevent heatstroke, please replenish your fluids frequently.)

Then there are specific categories like お酒 (o-sake) for alcoholic beverages and ソフトドリンク (sofuto dorinku) for non-alcoholic ones. If you are at a party, the host might ask 'O-sake to sofuto dorinku, dochira ni shimasu ka?' (Would you like alcohol or a soft drink?).

Comparison Table

Nomimono: General, everyday use.
Inryou: Formal, technical, scientific.
Dorinku: Modern, commercial, loanword.
Suibun: Biological, hydration-focused.
Sake: Specifically alcoholic.

健康のために、糖分の多い飲み物は控えています。 (Kenkou no tame ni, toubun no ooi nomimono wa hikaete imasu. - For my health, I am cutting back on sugary drinks.)

この自動販売機は飲み物が全部100円です。 (Kono jidou hanbaiki wa nomimono ga zenbu hyaku-en desu. - All the drinks in this vending machine are 100 yen.)

In summary, while 'nomimono' is your 'bread and butter' word for drinks, being aware of 'inryou' for labels, 'dorinku' for menus, and 'suibun' for health will make your Japanese much more nuanced and effective.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Japanese, 'mono' could refer to both physical objects and spiritual entities. While 'nomimono' today is strictly physical, the suffix '-mono' carries a long history of defining the essence of an object.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /nɒmɪmɒnəʊ/

US /noʊmimoʊnoʊ/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. 'Nomimono' typically has a flat (Heiban) accent, meaning the pitch stays relatively level.

Rhymes With

Tabemono (Food) Kaimono (Shopping) Wasuremono (Forgotten thing) Kirimono (Clothing/Kimono) Norimono (Vehicle) Yomimono (Reading material) Tatemono (Building) Hikimono (Ground meat/Turning)

Common Errors

Stressing the 'mo' syllable like in English 'no-MI-mono'.
Pronouncing 'no' like 'now'.
Making the 'i' sound too long like 'no-MEEE-mono'.
Skipping the 'u' sound if it were present (not applicable here, but common in other words).
Pronouncing 'mono' like the disease 'mono'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The kanji 飲み物 is very common and taught early. The 'nomi' part is a basic verb.

Writing 2/5

The kanji for 'mono' (物) has several strokes but is essential to learn.

Speaking 1/5

Four simple syllables with no difficult sounds for English speakers.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, rarely confused with other words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

飲む (Nomu) 物 (Mono) 水 (Mizu) お茶 (O-cha) です (Desu)

Learn Next

食べ物 (Tabemono) 買い物 (Kaimono) 注文する (Chuumon suru) メニュー (Menyū) コップ (Koppu)

Advanced

飲料 (Inryou) 嗜好品 (Shikouhin) 喉を潤す (Nodo o uruosu) 乾杯 (Kampai) 酒場 (Sakaba)

Grammar to Know

Noun + を + Verb

飲み物を飲む (Drink a drink)

Adjective + Noun

冷たい飲み物 (Cold drink)

Noun + は + Noun + です

お茶は飲み物です (Tea is a drink)

Noun + の + Noun

カフェの飲み物 (The cafe's drinks)

Verb (Stem) + 物

飲み物、食べ物、読み物

Examples by Level

飲み物をください。

A drink, please.

Uses the object marker 'o' and the polite request 'kudasai'.

好きな飲み物は何ですか？

What is your favorite drink?

Uses 'suki na' (na-adjective) to modify 'nomimono'.

これは飲み物です。

This is a drink.

A basic 'A wa B desu' sentence structure.

飲み物はどこですか？

Where are the drinks?

Uses 'doko' to ask for location.

冷たい飲み物がいいです。

A cold drink would be good.

Uses 'tsumetai' (i-adjective) to modify 'nomimono'.

飲み物を買います。

I will buy a drink.

Uses the verb 'kaimasu' (to buy).

お茶は飲み物です。

Tea is a drink.

Categorizing a specific item under the general term.

飲み物がたくさんあります。

There are many drinks.

Uses 'takusan' (many) and the existence verb 'arimasu'.

温かい飲み物を飲みましょう。

Let's drink a warm drink.

Uses the 'mashou' (let's) form of the verb 'nomu'.

飲み物を持ってきました。

I brought a drink.

Uses the 'te-form' of 'motsu' + 'kuru' (to bring).

この飲み物は甘すぎます。

This drink is too sweet.

Uses the suffix '-sugiru' (too much) with the adjective 'amai'.

飲み物は何がおすすめですか？

What drink do you recommend?

Uses 'osusume' (recommendation) with the particle 'ga'.

飲み物のおかわりはいかがですか？

Would you like a refill of your drink?

Uses 'okawari' (refill) and the polite 'ikaga desu ka'.

冷蔵庫に飲み物を入れました。

I put the drinks in the refrigerator.

Uses the particle 'ni' to show the destination of the action.

飲み物を選んでください。

Please choose a drink.

Uses the 'te-form' + 'kudasai' for a polite request.

飲み物はセルフサービスです。

Drinks are self-service.

Uses the loanword 'serufu sābisu'.

飲み物を飲みながら話をしましょう。

Let's talk while having a drink.

Uses '-nagara' to express two actions happening simultaneously.

体にいい飲み物を探しています。

I am looking for a drink that is good for the body.

Uses a relative clause 'karada ni ii' to modify 'nomimono'.

飲み物が足りないかもしれません。

We might not have enough drinks.

Uses 'kamoshiremasen' to express possibility.

飲み物をこぼしてしまいました。

I accidentally spilled my drink.

Uses '-te shimau' to express an accidental or regrettable action.

飲み物の持ち込みは禁止です。

Bringing in outside drinks is prohibited.

Uses 'mochikomi' (bringing in) and 'kinshi' (prohibited).

飲み物を注文してもいいですか？

May I order a drink?

Uses '-te mo ii desu ka' to ask for permission.

飲み物の種類が多すぎて選べません。

There are too many types of drinks, so I can't choose.

Uses the potential form 'erabemasen' (cannot choose).

飲み物を冷やしておきました。

I chilled the drinks in advance.

Uses '-te oku' to express doing something in preparation.

お飲み物は何になさいますか？

What would you like for your drink? (Very polite)

Uses 'sonkeigo' (honorific Japanese) 'nasaimasu' instead of 'shimasu'.

飲み物を出しすぎると、料理の味が分からなくなる。

If you serve too many drinks, you won't be able to taste the food.

Uses the conditional '-to' and the potential form 'wakaranaku naru'.

飲み物の容器をリサイクルしましょう。

Let's recycle the drink containers.

Uses 'youki' (container) and 'risaikuru' (recycle).

飲み物に含まれる糖分に注意してください。

Please be careful about the sugar content in drinks.

Uses the passive form 'fukumareru' (to be contained).

飲み物を片手間に飲むのは失礼だ。

It is rude to drink while doing something else (half-heartedly).

Uses 'katatemani' (on the side/half-heartedly) and 'shitsurei' (rude).

飲み物の提供が遅れて申し訳ありません。

I am sorry for the delay in serving the drinks.

Uses 'teikyou' (provision/serving) and the formal 'moushiwake arimasen'.

飲み物を一口飲んで、彼はため息をついた。

He took a sip of his drink and sighed.

Uses 'hitokuchi' (one mouthful/sip) and 'tameiki o tsuku' (to sigh).

飲み物のラベルをよく読んでください。

Please read the drink labels carefully.

Uses 'raberu' (label) and the adverb 'yoku' (carefully/well).

飲み物の嗜好は、文化によって大きく異なる。

Preferences for drinks vary greatly depending on the culture.

Uses 'shikou' (preference/taste) and 'ni yotte' (depending on).

飲み物を媒介として、会話が弾むこともある。

Conversations can become lively with drinks as a medium.

Uses 'baikai' (medium/intermediary) and 'hazumu' (to bounce/become lively).

飲み物の成分が健康に与える影響を調査する。

Investigate the effects of drink ingredients on health.

Uses 'seibun' (ingredients/components) and 'ataeru' (to give/affect).

飲み物を一口も受け付けないほど、体調が悪い。

I feel so sick that I can't even keep a sip of a drink down.

Uses 'uketsukenai' (cannot accept/keep down) and 'hodo' (to the extent that).

飲み物の歴史を紐解くと、意外な事実が見えてくる。

Unraveling the history of drinks reveals surprising facts.

Uses 'himotoku' (to unravel/read deeply) and 'miete kuru' (to become visible).

飲み物を巡るトラブルが、国際問題に発展した。

Troubles surrounding drinks developed into an international issue.

Uses 'o meguru' (surrounding/concerning) and 'hatten suru' (to develop).

飲み物のパッケージデザインが、売上に直結する。

The package design of a drink directly affects sales.

Uses 'chokketsu suru' (to be directly linked).

飲み物を嗜む余裕もないほど、仕事に追われている。

I am so busy with work that I don't even have the leeway to enjoy a drink.

Uses 'tashinamu' (to enjoy/partake in) and 'yoyuu' (leeway/room).

飲み物という概念を超越した、新たな液体食品の開発。

Development of a new liquid food that transcends the concept of a 'drink'.

Uses 'gainen' (concept) and 'chouetsu suru' (to transcend).

飲み物の芳醇な香りが、部屋全体に漂っている。

The mellow aroma of the drink is wafting throughout the entire room.

Uses 'houjun' (mellow/rich) and 'tadayou' (to waft/drift).

飲み物を供する際の所作に、その人の品格が表れる。

A person's dignity is revealed in their movements when serving a drink.

Uses 'kyousuru' (to serve/offer) and 'shosa' (conduct/movements).

飲み物の枯渇は、人類にとって死活問題である。

The depletion of drinkable liquids is a matter of life and death for humanity.

Uses 'kokatsu' (depletion/drying up) and 'shikatsu mondai' (life-and-death matter).

飲み物を一献傾けながら、旧交を温める。

Renewing an old friendship while sharing a drink.

Uses 'ikkon katamukeru' (to share a drink) and 'kyuukou o atatameru' (to renew old friendship).

飲み物の変遷は、社会の価値観の変容を映し出している。

The transition of drinks reflects the transformation of social values.

Uses 'hensen' (transition) and 'henyou' (transformation).

飲み物の微かな苦味が、人生の機微を象徴しているようだ。

The slight bitterness of the drink seems to symbolize the subtleties of life.

Uses 'kasuka' (faint) and 'kibi' (subtleties/inner workings).

飲み物を媒介とした社交の場は、古今東西を問わず存在する。

Social venues using drinks as a medium exist regardless of time or place.

Uses 'kokon touzai o towazu' (regardless of time or place).

Synonyms

飲料ドリンク水物水分酒類

Antonyms

食べ物食料

Common Collocations

飲み物を選ぶ

飲み物を出す

飲み物を注文する

冷たい飲み物

温かい飲み物

飲み物をこぼす

飲み物を持ち込む

飲み物を用意する

飲み物の種類

飲み物を控える

Common Phrases

お飲み物は何になさいますか？

— What would you like to drink? This is the standard polite question from restaurant staff.

店員：お飲み物は何になさいますか？客：ビールをお願いします。

何か飲み物はいかがですか？

— Would you like something to drink? A common way to offer hospitality to a guest.

家に友達が来た時、「何か飲み物はいかがですか？」と聞く。

飲み物は別料金です。

— Drinks are a separate charge. Often heard at buffet restaurants or set-meal shops.

このコースに飲み物は含まれていません。飲み物は別料金です。

飲み物のおかわり

— A refill of a drink. Essential for 'all-you-can-drink' situations.

飲み物のおかわりをください。

飲み物売り場

— The beverage section/aisle in a store.

スーパーの飲み物売り場はあちらです。

飲み物代

— The cost of drinks. Used when splitting a bill.

飲み物代は私が払います。

飲み物持ち込み禁止

— No outside drinks allowed. A common sign in venues.

看板に「飲み物持ち込み禁止」と書いてある。

好きな飲み物

— Favorite drink. A common icebreaker question.

あなたの好きな飲み物は何ですか？

飲み物リスト

— Drink list or menu.

飲み物リストを見て、ワインを選んだ。

飲み物サービス

— Complimentary drink service.

このホテルでは、夕方に飲み物サービスがあります。

Often Confused With

飲み物 vs 飲み屋 (Nomiya)

Nomiya is a place (bar/pub), while nomimono is the object (drink).

飲み物 vs 飲み方 (Nomikata)

Nomikata means 'how to drink' or 'way of drinking', not the drink itself.

飲み物 vs 飲み口 (Nomikuchi)

Nomikuchi refers to the taste/mouthfeel or the opening of a container.

Idioms & Expressions

"飲み物にする"

— To decide on a drink. Using 'ni suru' indicates making a choice.

私はオレンジジュースを飲み物にします。

Neutral

"飲み物を切らす"

— To run out of drinks.

客が来たのに、飲み物を切らしてしまった。

Neutral

"飲み物に困る"

— To have trouble finding something to drink (e.g., in a desert or a broken vending machine).

断水で飲み物に困っている。

Neutral

"飲み物を勧める"

— To offer or recommend a drink to someone.

上司に新しい飲み物を勧めた。

Polite

"飲み物を嗜む"

— To enjoy a drink with appreciation (often used for tea or alcohol).

彼は静かに飲み物を嗜んでいる。

Formal

"飲み物が進む"

— To drink more than usual (often because the food is salty or spicy).

辛い料理で飲み物が進む。

Neutral

"飲み物を振る舞う"

— To treat someone to drinks or serve them generously.

村の人々に飲み物を振る舞った。

Formal

"飲み物を手にする"

— To pick up or hold a drink.

彼女は飲み物を手にして窓の外を見た。

Literary

"飲み物を口にする"

— To take a sip or start drinking.

彼は慎重に飲み物を口にした。

Formal

"飲み物を控える"

— To refrain from drinking (for health or social reasons).

健康診断の前は飲み物を控えてください。

Neutral

Easily Confused

飲み物 vs 飲料 (Inryou)

Both mean beverage.

Inryou is formal/technical, while nomimono is everyday/conversational. You see 'inryou' on labels but say 'nomimono' to friends.

ラベルには『清涼飲料水』と書いてあるが、友達には『飲み物』と言う。

飲み物 vs ドリンク (Dorinku)

Both mean drink.

Dorinku is a loanword, often used for specific commercial products or 'drink bars'. Nomimono is more traditional and broad.

ドリンクバーで飲み物を取りに行く。

飲み物 vs 水分 (Suibun)

Both refer to liquids for the body.

Suibun is about hydration and biological needs. Nomimono is about the item you enjoy drinking.

運動中は水分を摂る必要があるが、好きな飲み物はコーラだ。

飲み物 vs お酒 (Osake)

Alcohol is a drink.

Osake is specific to alcohol. If you ask for 'nomimono', people might assume non-alcoholic unless the context is a bar.

飲み物は何がいい？お酒も飲む？

飲み物 vs スープ (Sūpu)

Soups are liquid.

While some thin soups are sipped, they are generally categorized as 'tabemono' (food) or just 'sūpu', not 'nomimono'.

スープは食べ物に近いが、お茶は飲み物だ。

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] は飲み物です。

コーラは飲み物です。

飲み物を [Verb]ます。

飲み物を買います。

[Adjective] 飲み物

甘い飲み物

飲み物は [Noun] がいいです。

飲み物は水がいいです。

飲み物を [Verb] ながら [Verb]。

飲み物を飲みながら歩く。

[Sentence] 飲み物

昨日買った飲み物

お飲み物は何になさいますか？

飲み物を [Verb] 余裕もない。

飲み物を飲む余裕もない。

Word Family

Nouns

飲み手 (Nomite - a drinker)

飲み口 (Nomikuchi - mouthfeel)

飲み会 (Nomikai - drinking party)

飲み屋 (Nomiya - bar/pub)

Verbs

飲む (Nomu - to drink)

飲み込む (Nomikomu - to swallow/understand)

飲み干す (Nomihosu - to drink up)

飲み過ぎる (Nomisugiru - to overdrink)

Adjectives

飲みやすい (Nomiyasui - easy to drink)

飲みづらい (Nomizurai - hard to drink)

食べ物 (Tabemono - food)

水 (Mizu - water)

茶 (Cha - tea)

酒 (Sake - alcohol)

コップ (Koppu - cup)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life, especially in urban areas with many shops and vending machines.

Common Mistakes

Using 'o-nomimono' for yourself. → Watashi no nomimono wa...
Using honorifics for your own actions or things sounds strange and overly humble/formal in a way that doesn't fit.
Saying 'Nomimono o nomu'. → Mizu o nomu / Nanika nomu
While not wrong, it's redundant. It's like saying 'I'm drinking a drinkable thing'. Just name the drink.
Confusing 'nomimono' with 'yomimono'. → Nomimono (Drink) / Yomimono (Reading)
The 'no' and 'yo' sounds are different. One is for drinking, one is for reading.
Using 'nomimono' for thick soup. → Sūpu / Tabemono
If it has chunks of food and requires a spoon, it's not a 'nomimono'.
Adding '-tachi' for plural. → Takusan no nomimono
'-tachi' is for people (and sometimes animals), not for inanimate objects like drinks.

Tips

Verb Stem + Mono

Remember the pattern: [Verb Stem] + 物 (mono) = [Action] thing. This works for 食べ物 (food), 読み物 (reading), and 買い物 (shopping).

The Honorific 'O'

Always use 'o-nomimono' when offering a drink to someone you don't know well or a superior. It makes you sound very polite and cultured.

Hot vs Cold

In Japan, temperature matters. Learn 'tsumetai' (cold) and 'atatakai' (warm) to use with 'nomimono' for better precision.

Set Menus

Check if 'nomimono' is included in your 'ranchi setto' (lunch set). If it is, the waiter will ask you which one you want.

Icebreaker

Asking 'Suki na nomimono wa nan desu ka?' is a great, safe way to start a conversation with a Japanese person.

Even Beats

Pronounce 'no-mi-mo-no' with four equal beats. Don't rush it or stress the middle syllables.

Okurigana

Don't forget the 'mi' (み) after the kanji 飲. It's 飲み物, not 飲物 (though you might see the latter in very old or shorthand signs).

Blue vs Red

On vending machines, blue labels mean 'tsumetai' (cold) and red labels mean 'atatakai' (hot) nomimono.

Hydration

If a doctor says 'suibun o totte', they mean hydrate. They might not care if it's a 'nomimono' you like, just that you get liquid.

Serving

When serving a 'nomimono', place it to the right of the person if possible, and handle the glass near the bottom, not the rim.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'No Me' (No, me!) and 'Mono' (the disease). 'No me, I want the mono-drink!' (A bit silly, but helps remember the syllables). Or better: 'Nomi' sounds like 'Know Me'. 'Know me by the thing (mono) I drink.'

Visual Association

Imagine a vending machine with a giant label that says 'NOMIMONO'. See yourself pointing at it and saying the word.

Word Web

Nomu (Verb) Mono (Noun) Tabemono (Food) Kaimono (Shopping) O-cha (Tea) Mizu (Water) Glass (Container) Restaurant (Location)

Challenge

Go to a Japanese grocery store or look at an online Japanese menu. Find the 'nomimono' section and try to name three drinks you see there.

Word Origin

The word is a native Japanese (Kun-yomi) compound. It combines the 'Ren'youkei' (continuative form) of the verb 'nomu' (to drink) with the noun 'mono' (thing). This pattern of creating nouns from verbs is a core feature of the Japanese language that dates back centuries.

Original meaning: Literally 'a thing for drinking'.

Japonic

Cultural Context

When offering 'nomimono' to a Japanese person, always offer a choice between hot and cold if possible. Be aware that 'o-sake' is a type of 'nomimono' but should be offered carefully depending on the time of day.

In English, we often just say 'drinks'. In Japan, the term is slightly more formal and structured, especially with the 'o-' prefix.

Vending machines in anime (often showing 'Nomimono' labels). Japanese tea ceremony (the ultimate 'nomimono' ritual). Izakaya culture in Japanese films.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Restaurant

お飲み物は何にしますか？
飲み物メニューをください。
飲み物は食後にお願いします。
飲み物のおかわりはありますか？

At a Convenience Store

飲み物売り場はどこですか？
温かい飲み物はありますか？
飲み物を二本買います。
この飲み物はいくらですか？

At Home (Hosting)

何か飲み物飲む？
冷たい飲み物しかないけどいい？
飲み物、冷蔵庫に入ってるよ。
新しい飲み物を作ったよ。

In a Meeting

お飲み物を失礼します。
飲み物を用意しておきました。
飲み物、どちらが良いですか？
飲み物はセルフでお願いします。

Discussing Health

甘い飲み物は控えています。
体にいい飲み物を教えてください。
毎日、飲み物をたくさん飲みます。
冷たい飲み物は胃に悪いです。

Conversation Starters

"一番好きな飲み物は何ですか？ (What is your favorite drink?)"

"日本の飲み物で、何が一番珍しいと思いましたか？ (What Japanese drink did you find most unusual?)"

"最近、何か美味しい飲み物を飲みましたか？ (Have you had any delicious drinks lately?)"

"暑い日にはどんな飲み物が飲みたくなりますか？ (What kind of drink do you want to drink on a hot day?)"

"自動販売機でよく買う飲み物は何ですか？ (What drink do you often buy from vending machines?)"

Journal Prompts

今日飲んだ飲み物をすべてリストアップして、その感想を書いてください。 (List all the drinks you had today and write your thoughts on them.)

子供の頃に好きだった飲み物について書いてください。 (Write about a drink you liked when you were a child.)

あなたの国で一番有名な飲み物は何ですか？それを説明してください。 (What is the most famous drink in your country? Please describe it.)

もし新しい飲み物を作れるなら、どんな味にしますか？ (If you could create a new drink, what flavor would it be?)

飲み物に関する面白い思い出があれば書いてください。 (Write about a funny memory involving a drink.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'nomimono' is a broad term that includes alcohol. However, in a restaurant, the menu might be split into 'soft drinks' and 'alcohol'. If someone asks if you want a 'nomimono', they are usually asking generally, but if you want alcohol, it's clearer to specify 'o-sake'.

The 'o' is an honorific prefix. 'O-nomimono' is more polite and is used by staff to customers or when you are showing respect to a guest. You should use 'nomimono' when talking about your own drink in a casual setting.

Generally, no. Soup is usually called 'sūpu' or 'shiru-mono'. Even though you drink it, it's considered part of the meal (food) rather than a beverage. However, some canned soups in vending machines might be loosely categorized as drinks.

You can say 'Nomimono ga hoshii desu' (I want a drink) or 'Nomimono o nomitai desu' (I want to drink a drink). In a shop, 'Nomimono o kudasai' (A drink, please) is best.

'Nomimono' is the standard Japanese word. 'Dorinku' is very common in modern contexts like menus or 'energy drinks', but 'nomimono' remains the fundamental term everyone uses.

It is 飲み物. 飲 (nomi) means drink, and 物 (mono) means thing. The 'mi' (み) is written in hiragana as okurigana.

Yes, water (mizu) is the most basic 'nomimono'. In a restaurant, water is often served automatically, but it's still categorized as a drink.

You don't! Japanese nouns don't change for plural. You can say 'iroiro na nomimono' (various drinks) or use counters like 'futatsu no nomimono' (two drinks).

No, that is 'yomimono' (読み物). They sound similar because they both use the '[Verb Stem] + mono' pattern. Be careful with the first syllable!

Use 'inryou' (飲料) in formal writing, reports, or when reading labels. It's like the difference between 'drink' and 'beverage' in English, but even more distinct.