飲料水 in 30 Seconds
- 飲料水 (inryōsui) means safe drinking water.
- It's water suitable for consumption, emphasizing safety.
- Used in contexts of public health, disaster relief, and product labeling.
- Distinguished from general 'water' (水).
- Japanese Term
- 飲料水 (いんりょうすい - inryōsui)
- English Definition
- Water that is safe to drink. This term specifically refers to water intended for consumption, distinguishing it from water used for other purposes like washing or industrial use.
- Usage Context
- You will encounter 飲料水 in various settings, particularly when discussing public health, water quality, and basic necessities. It's common in official announcements, regulations, and discussions about access to clean water. For instance, during natural disasters, relief efforts focus on providing safe 飲料水. In everyday life, you might see signs indicating that tap water is potable 飲料水, or discussions about bottled water labels. It's a formal term that emphasizes the safety and purpose of the water.
災害時には、迅速な飲料水の確保が最優先事項です。
この地域では、水道水はそのまま飲料水として利用できます。
- Formal Declarations
- Official statements often use 飲料水 to emphasize the availability and safety of drinking water. For example, a government announcement regarding water supply might state: 「市民の皆様へ、水道局は安全な飲料水の供給を保証いたします。」 (To all citizens, the water bureau guarantees the supply of safe drinking water.) This highlights the seriousness and official nature of the communication.
- Health and Safety Guidelines
- When discussing health or safety regulations concerning water, 飲料水 is the standard term. For instance, a public health pamphlet could read: 「未開封のペットボトル飲料水は、直射日光を避けて保管してください。」 (Please store unopened bottled drinking water away from direct sunlight.) This emphasizes the importance of proper storage for ensuring the water remains safe to drink.
- Disaster Preparedness
- In contexts of emergencies or natural disasters, the focus is on providing essential resources, and safe 飲料水 is paramount. A news report might say: 「被災地では飲料水が不足しており、支援が急務です。」 (Drinking water is scarce in the disaster-stricken area, and aid is urgently needed.) This conveys the critical need for potable water.
- Everyday Discussions about Water
- While less common in casual chat than simply saying 水 (mizu), you might use 飲料水 when specifically distinguishing drinking water from other types. For example, when explaining water purification systems: 「このフィルターは、飲料水の質を向上させます。」 (This filter improves the quality of drinking water.) This clarifies the purpose of the filter.
- Commercial and Product Information
- Labels on bottled water or water dispensers often use 飲料水 to indicate the product's purpose. For example, a label might read: 「本製品は、厳選された天然水を使用した飲料水です。」 (This product is drinking water made from carefully selected natural water.) This is a direct statement about the product's function.
- News Reports on Water Quality
- When there are issues with tap water quality or contamination scares, news anchors and reporters will frequently use 飲料水 to describe the affected water or the safe water being supplied. They might report on local authorities testing the 飲料水 or distributing emergency supplies of it.
- Public Health Announcements
- Government agencies and health organizations use 飲料水 in official advisories, especially concerning water safety. This includes warnings about consuming untreated water or instructions on how to make water safe for drinking during emergencies. You'll hear it in public service announcements and on official websites.
- Disaster Relief Operations
- In the context of natural disasters like earthquakes or typhoons, relief efforts heavily involve the distribution of safe drinking water. Volunteers, aid workers, and officials coordinating these efforts will use 飲料水 when discussing the supply chain and needs for potable water.
- Environmental Discussions
- When discussing water pollution, conservation, and the importance of clean water sources, the term 飲料水 is used to highlight the ultimate goal: ensuring a safe supply for human consumption. Environmental activists and scientists might use it in presentations or reports.
- Product Labeling and Marketing
- Bottled water companies, manufacturers of water filters, and vendors of water dispensers will use 飲料水 on their packaging and in their advertisements to clearly state that their product is safe for drinking. This is a direct and unambiguous term for consumers.
- Confusing with General 'Water'
- Learners might sometimes use 飲料水 when they simply mean 'water' in a general sense, like water in a vase or water for plants. However, 飲料水 specifically implies water that is safe and intended for human consumption. For instance, saying 「花に飲料水をあげてください。」 (Please give the flowers drinking water) would be incorrect and sound strange. The correct word for water in general, or for non-potable uses, is simply 水 (mizu).
- Overuse in Casual Conversation
- In very casual, everyday conversations, especially among friends or family, people are more likely to just say 水 (mizu) when referring to drinking water. Using the more formal 飲料水 in such contexts might sound a bit stiff or overly precise. For example, instead of 「飲料水をください。」 (Please give me drinking water), a more natural request would be 「お水をください。」 (O-mizu o kudasai).
- Assuming All Water is 飲料水
- It's crucial to remember that not all water sources are safe to drink. A common mistake is to assume that any water presented is implicitly 飲料水. For example, if visiting a rural area or a place with potentially unsafe water sources, one should not automatically assume the water from a tap or a natural spring is safe 飲料水 without confirmation. It's important to be aware of the context and inquire if necessary.
- Literal Translation Pitfalls
- English speakers might try to directly translate phrases like 'drinking water' without considering the nuance. While 'drinking water' is a direct translation, the Japanese term 飲料水 carries a stronger implication of safety and official designation, especially in formal contexts. Simply saying 「飲む水」 (nomu mizu - water to drink) is grammatically correct but less formal and specific than 飲料水.
- General Term: 水 (mizu)
- Similarities: Both refer to the substance H2O.
Differences: 水 is the general, all-purpose word for water. It can refer to water for drinking, washing, bathing, industrial use, or even water in nature (like a river). 飲料水 is specifically *potable* water, water intended for drinking and confirmed to be safe. In casual conversation, 水 is often used even when referring to drinking water. For example, 「お水をください。」 (O-mizu o kudasai - Please give me water) is a polite and common request for drinking water. - More Specific: 飲用水 (いんようすい - in'yōsui)
- Similarities: Both mean water for drinking.
Differences: 飲用水 is a slightly more technical or legal term, often used in contexts like water quality standards and regulations. 飲料水 is more commonly used in general discourse and on product labels. While they are largely interchangeable, 飲料水 might be preferred for broader communication, whereas 飲用水 could appear in more specialized documents related to water treatment and safety standards. - Informal/Colloquial: 飲む水 (のむみず - nomu mizu)
- Similarities: Refers to water for drinking.
Differences: 飲む水 is a more direct, descriptive phrase meaning 'water to drink'. It is less formal than 飲料水 and is more likely to be used in everyday speech when clarity is needed without the formality of 飲料水. For example, 「これは飲む水ですか？」 (Is this water to drink?) is a valid question, but 飲料水 might be used in a context where safety is the primary concern. - Specific Types: ミネラルウォーター (mineraru wōtā - mineral water)
- Similarities: Both are types of potable water.
Differences: ミネラルウォーター is a specific type of bottled drinking water that contains minerals. 飲料水 is the overarching category that includes mineral water, tap water (if safe), purified water, etc. You would say that mineral water is a type of 飲料水.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 飲 (in) depicts a person drinking from a vessel. The character 水 (sui) represents flowing water. The combination clearly signifies water meant for consumption.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'ō' sound too short.
- Not clearly distinguishing the 'ryo' sound.
- Incorrect stress placement, making it sound unnatural.
Difficulty Rating
The kanji 飲 (drink), 료 (use/purpose), and 水 (water) are relatively common. However, the compound word itself and its formal usage might require some context for learners. Understanding its nuances in different situations (e.g., disaster relief vs. product label) adds to the reading difficulty.
Writing 飲料水 correctly involves remembering the specific kanji and their order. Using it appropriately in sentences, distinguishing it from general 'water', requires a good grasp of context and register.
Pronunciation is manageable, but using the word naturally in conversation requires understanding its formal register and when it's appropriate compared to simpler terms like 'mizu'.
Recognizing 飲料水 when spoken requires familiarity with its pronunciation and context. It's often heard in news reports, official announcements, or when discussing specific products, making context clues important.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using the particle 「は」 (wa) to mark the topic.
飲料水は安全です。(Drinking water is safe.)
Using the particle 「を」 (o) to mark the direct object.
飲料水を買いました。(I bought drinking water.)
Using the potential form of verbs (e.g., 飲めます - can drink).
この水は飲めます。(This water can be drunk.)
Using 「〜として」 (toshite) to mean 'as' or 'in the capacity of'.
この水は飲料水として適しています。(This water is suitable as drinking water.)
Using 「〜ため」 (tame) to indicate purpose.
これは飲むための水です。(This is water for drinking.)
Examples by Level
水は美味しいです。
Water is delicious.
Simple sentence structure with the topic marker は and the adjective 美味しい (delicious).
これは水です。
This is water.
Basic demonstrative pronoun これ (this) followed by the topic marker は and the noun 水 (water).
水をください。
Please give me water.
Direct request using the object marker を and the verb ください (please give).
水道水は飲めますか？
Can I drink tap water?
Uses the particle は to mark the topic and the potential form of the verb 飲む (to drink) - 飲めます (can drink).
ペットボトルの水。
Bottled water.
Noun phrase combining ペットボトル (plastic bottle) and 水 (water).
安全な水。
Safe water.
Adjective 安全な (safe) modifying the noun 水 (water).
飲むための水。
Water for drinking.
Uses the nominalizer の to turn the verb 飲む (to drink) into a noun phrase 'drinking'.
きれいな水。
Clean water.
Adjective きれいな (clean) modifying the noun 水 (water).
この水は安全で、そのまま飲料水として飲めます。
This water is safe and can be drunk as drinking water as is.
Combines the adjective 安全 (safe) with the particle で to link clauses. Uses 飲料水 as a noun and the potential form 飲めます.
災害時、最も重要なのは飲料水の確保です。
During a disaster, the most important thing is securing drinking water.
Uses the topic marker は and the nominalizer の to create the phrase 「最も重要なのは〜です」 (the most important thing is ~).
自動販売機で飲料水を買いました。
I bought drinking water from a vending machine.
Simple past tense using 買いました (bought). 飲料水 is used as the direct object.
子供に飲ませるための飲料水は、特に注意が必要です。
Drinking water to give to children requires special care.
Uses the causative form 飲ませる (to make someone drink) and the particle ため (for the purpose of).
このレストランでは、自家製の飲料水を提供しています。
This restaurant offers homemade drinking water.
Uses the verb 提供しています (is offering/providing).
水道局は、安全な飲料水の供給に努めています。
The waterworks bureau is striving to supply safe drinking water.
Uses the phrase 〜に努めています (is striving to ~).
旅行中は、必ず信頼できる飲料水を選びましょう。
When traveling, let's always choose reliable drinking water.
Uses the imperative form 〜ましょう (let's ~) and the adjective 信頼できる (reliable).
この装置は、普通の水を飲料水に変えることができます。
This device can change ordinary water into drinking water.
Uses the verb 変える (to change) and the particle 〜を〜に (to change A into B).
公衆衛生の観点から、飲料水の水質管理は極めて重要です。
From a public health perspective, the water quality management of drinking water is extremely important.
Uses the noun phrase 「〜の観点から」 (from the perspective of ~) and the adjective 極めて (extremely).
熱帯地域では、生水（なまみず）を飲料水として飲むことは避けるべきです。
In tropical regions, one should avoid drinking raw water as drinking water.
Uses the verb 避ける (to avoid) and the potential negative 〜べきです (should not ~).
この地域では、長年にわたり安全な飲料水が供給されてきました。
In this region, safe drinking water has been supplied for many years.
Uses the passive voice 供給されてきました (has been supplied) to indicate a continuous action from the past.
環境保護のため、ペットボトルの飲料水の使用を控える動きがあります。
There is a movement to refrain from using bottled drinking water for environmental protection.
Uses the phrase 〜を控える (to refrain from ~) and 〜動きがあります (there is a movement).
非常時には、備蓄している飲料水が命綱となります。
In emergencies, stored drinking water becomes a lifeline.
Uses the noun phrase 「〜が命綱となります」 (~ becomes a lifeline).
この浄水器は、水道水を飲料水レベルまで浄化します。
This water purifier purifies tap water to drinking water levels.
Uses the verb 浄化します (to purify) and the particle 〜まで (up to/to the level of).
屋外での活動中は、十分な飲料水を携帯することが推奨されます。
During outdoor activities, it is recommended to carry sufficient drinking water.
Uses the passive form 推奨されます (is recommended) and the verb 携帯する (to carry).
水道水の味に抵抗がある人もいますが、品質は飲料水として問題ありません。
Some people are resistant to the taste of tap water, but its quality is not a problem as drinking water.
Uses the adjective 抵抗がある (to have resistance) and 〜として (as ~).
国際的な飲料水の基準に適合するため、製造プロセスが見直されました。
The manufacturing process was reviewed to comply with international drinking water standards.
Uses the verb 適合する (to comply with/match) and the passive verb 見直されました (was reviewed).
水不足が深刻化する地域では、飲料水の確保が最優先課題となっています。
In regions where water shortages are becoming severe, securing drinking water has become the top priority issue.
Uses the verb 深刻化する (to become severe) and the phrase 〜が最優先課題となっています (has become the top priority issue).
近年、健康志向の高まりから、ミネラル豊富な飲料水への関心が高まっています。
In recent years, interest in mineral-rich drinking water has been increasing due to a rise in health consciousness.
Uses the phrase 〜への関心が高まっています (interest in ~ is increasing) and 〜から (due to).
公共の場に設置されるウォーターサーバーは、手軽に利用できる飲料水の供給源です。
Water servers installed in public places are a source of easily accessible drinking water.
Uses the adjective 手軽に利用できる (easily accessible) to modify 飲料水の供給源 (source of drinking water).
河川の汚染が進むと、それを浄化して飲料水として利用することが困難になります。
As river pollution progresses, it becomes difficult to purify it and use it as drinking water.
Uses the verb 〜が進む (to progress) and the adjective 困難になります (becomes difficult).
飲料水の安全性に関する情報は、常に最新のものを確認するようにしてください。
Please always check the latest information regarding the safety of drinking water.
Uses the phrase 〜に関する情報 (information regarding ~) and 〜ようにしてください (please try to ~).
この地域では、地下水脈からの飲料水の採取が伝統的な方法となっています。
In this region, extracting drinking water from underground aquifers is the traditional method.
Uses the noun phrase 〜からの〜の採取 (extraction of ~ from ~) and the adjective 伝統的な (traditional).
飲料水に含まれる微量なミネラル成分が、人体に様々な良い影響を与える可能性があります。
The trace amounts of minerals contained in drinking water may have various beneficial effects on the human body.
Uses the phrase 〜可能性があります (there is a possibility that ~) and the adjective 様々な (various).
近年の気候変動は、飲料水の安定供給に予測不能な影響を及ぼす懸念があります。
Recent climate change raises concerns about unpredictable impacts on the stable supply of drinking water.
Uses the noun phrase 「〜に予測不能な影響を及ぼす懸念があります」 (there are concerns about unpredictable impacts on ~).
飲料水の基準値は、科学的知見に基づいて定期的に見直され、更新されています。
Drinking water standard values are periodically reviewed and updated based on scientific knowledge.
Uses the passive voice 見直され、更新されています (are reviewed and updated) and the phrase 〜に基づいて (based on).
都市部における過剰な水消費は、水源の枯渇を招き、飲料水の確保を困難にする要因となり得ます。
Excessive water consumption in urban areas can lead to the depletion of water sources and become a factor that makes securing drinking water difficult.
Uses the verb 招く (to invite/lead to) and the phrase 〜要因となり得ます (can become a factor).
持続可能な社会の実現には、限られた飲料水資源の効率的な利用が不可欠です。
The realization of a sustainable society requires the efficient utilization of limited drinking water resources.
Uses the phrase 〜の実現には〜が不可欠です (for the realization of ~ ~ is indispensable) and the adjective 限られた (limited).
飲料水の汚染源を特定し、その拡散を阻止するための包括的な対策が求められています。
Comprehensive measures are required to identify sources of drinking water contamination and prevent their spread.
Uses the verb 阻止する (to prevent/block) and the adjective 包括的な (comprehensive).
水質検査の結果、この水源は飲料水としての安全基準を満たしていることが確認されました。
As a result of water quality tests, it was confirmed that this water source meets the safety standards for drinking water.
Uses the phrase 〜を満たしていることが確認されました (it was confirmed that ~ meets ~).
飲料水の供給網におけるインフラの老朽化は、漏水や水質悪化のリスクを高める要因となります。
The aging infrastructure in the drinking water supply network becomes a factor that increases the risk of leaks and water quality deterioration.
Uses the noun phrase 〜のリスクを高める要因となります (becomes a factor that increases the risk of ~) and the adjective 老朽化 (aging).
革新的な浄水技術の開発は、将来的な飲料水の安定供給に大きく貢献すると期待されています。
The development of innovative water purification technologies is expected to greatly contribute to the future stable supply of drinking water.
Uses the phrase 〜に大きく貢献すると期待されています (is expected to greatly contribute to ~) and the adjective 革新的な (innovative).
未曾有の干ばつにより、飲料水の確保は国家的な喫緊の課題へと発展しました。
Due to an unprecedented drought, securing drinking water has evolved into a national urgent issue.
Uses the adjective 未曾有の (unprecedented) and the phrase 〜は〜へと発展しました (has evolved into ~).
飲料水の供給システムにおけるレジリエンスの強化は、気候変動への適応策として不可欠な要素です。
Strengthening resilience in the drinking water supply system is an essential element as an adaptation measure against climate change.
Uses the noun phrase 〜への適応策として不可欠な要素です (is an essential element as an adaptation measure against ~) and the noun レジリエンス (resilience).
水源地の生態系保全は、長期的な視点に立った飲料水の持続可能性を担保する上で極めて重要です。
The conservation of the ecosystem in water source areas is extremely important in guaranteeing the long-term sustainability of drinking water from a long-term perspective.
Uses the phrase 〜を担保する上で極めて重要です (is extremely important in guaranteeing ~) and the adjective 長期的な (long-term).
飲料水に含まれる微量元素の生理学的影響に関する包括的な研究が、公衆衛生学分野で進められています。
Comprehensive research on the physiological effects of trace elements contained in drinking water is being advanced in the field of public health.
Uses the phrase 〜に関する包括的な研究が進められています (comprehensive research on ~ is being advanced) and the noun phrase 公衆衛生学分野 (field of public health).
国際社会は、飲料水へのアクセス格差の是正に向け、より協調的な取り組みを強化する必要があります。
The international community needs to strengthen more cooperative efforts towards correcting the disparity in access to drinking water.
Uses the verb 是正する (to correct/rectify) and the phrase 〜に向け (towards ~) and 〜必要があります (need to ~).
飲料水供給システムのサイバーセキュリティ確保は、現代社会における新たな課題として浮上しています。
Ensuring the cybersecurity of drinking water supply systems is emerging as a new challenge in modern society.
Uses the phrase 〜は〜として浮上しています (is emerging as ~) and the noun サイバーセキュリティ (cybersecurity).
飲料水の消費動向を分析することは、都市計画や資源配分戦略を策定する上で不可欠なインサイトを提供します。
Analyzing drinking water consumption trends provides indispensable insights for formulating urban planning and resource allocation strategies.
Uses the phrase 〜を策定する上で不可欠なインサイトを提供します (provides indispensable insights for formulating ~) and the noun 動向 (trends).
持続可能な水管理の観点から、雨水利用や排水の再利用といった代替的な飲料水源の開発が模索されています。
From the perspective of sustainable water management, the development of alternative drinking water sources such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse is being explored.
Uses the phrase 〜といった〜の開発が模索されています (development of ~ such as ~ is being explored) and the noun 観点 (perspective).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Safe drinking water. This emphasizes that the water is free from harmful contaminants and suitable for consumption.
災害時、最も重要なのは安全な飲料水の確保です。(During a disaster, the most important thing is securing safe drinking water.)
— Supply of drinking water. This refers to the process of providing safe drinking water to a population or area.
水道局は、市民への飲料水の供給を滞りなく行っています。(The water bureau is ensuring the uninterrupted supply of drinking water to citizens.)
— Securing drinking water. This means making sure there is enough safe drinking water available, especially in critical situations.
非常時には、飲料水の確保が最優先事項となります。(In emergencies, securing drinking water becomes the top priority.)
— Drinking water quality. This refers to the characteristics of the water that determine its suitability for drinking, such as purity, taste, and absence of pollutants.
飲料水の水質基準は、国際的に定められています。(Drinking water quality standards are set internationally.)
— Drinking water consumption. This refers to the amount of drinking water used by individuals or communities.
都市部では、飲料水の消費量が増加傾向にあります。(In urban areas, drinking water consumption is on the rise.)
— Drinking water contamination. This refers to the presence of harmful substances in drinking water that make it unsafe.
農薬の流出により、飲料水の汚染が懸念されています。(Concerns are rising about drinking water contamination due to the outflow of pesticides.)
— Drinking water standards. These are the established guidelines and regulations that drinking water must meet to be considered safe.
この製品は、日本の飲料水の基準を満たしています。(This product meets Japanese drinking water standards.)
— Drinking water shortage. This occurs when there is not enough safe drinking water to meet demand.
干ばつにより、地域全体で飲料水不足が発生しています。(Due to the drought, a shortage of drinking water is occurring throughout the region.)
— For drinking water. This indicates that something is intended or suitable for use as drinking water.
このフィルターは飲料水用です。(This filter is for drinking water.)
— Raw drinking water. This term might be used to distinguish water that hasn't been treated or boiled, often implying it might not be safe.
熱帯地域では、生の飲料水を避けるべきです。(In tropical regions, raw drinking water should be avoided.)
Often Confused With
While 水 is the general word for water, 飲料水 specifically refers to water that is safe to drink. You wouldn't call water for washing your car or watering plants 飲料水.
上水 refers to purified water supplied by a waterworks system, which is generally safe to drink. 飲料水 emphasizes the purpose of drinking. While often overlapping, 飲料水 is more direct about 'drinking' water.
飲酒 means 'drinking alcohol'. It's a common mistake for beginners to confuse words related to 'drinking' (飲む - nomu) when they are unrelated in meaning, like 飲料水 and 飲酒.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally means 'not even water drips from it'. It describes someone who is extremely clean, neat, or well-dressed, often implying a certain elegance or perfection. While not directly related to 飲料水, it uses the word 水 (water) in a figurative sense.
彼はいつも身なりがきちんとしていて、水も滴らないような人だ。(He always dresses neatly and is the kind of person from whom even water wouldn't drip.)
General— Literally means 'to let flow in the water'. It signifies forgiving and forgetting past grievances or mistakes, moving on without holding grudges.
過去のことは水に流して、新しい関係を築こう。(Let's let bygones be bygones and build a new relationship.)
General— Literally means 'a fish that has gained water'. It describes someone who becomes very energetic, confident, and successful in a particular environment or situation where they feel comfortable and competent.
彼女は新しいプロジェクトで水を得た魚のように活躍している。(She is thriving in the new project like a fish that has gained water.)
General— Literally means 'water-throwing argument'. It refers to a pointless, endless argument where both sides refuse to yield, often involving accusations and counter-accusations without resolution.
この問題について、いつまでも水掛け論を続けていても仕方がない。(There's no point in continuing this water-throwing argument about this issue forever.)
General— Literally means 'to return to bubbles'. It signifies that something has come to nothing, failed completely, or been in vain.
長年の努力が、計画の中止により水泡に帰してしまった。(Years of effort came to nothing due to the cancellation of the plan.)
Formal— Literally means 'water's edge operation'. It refers to measures taken at the border or entry point to prevent something undesirable, such as the spread of disease or illegal entry.
感染症の流入を防ぐため、水際作戦が強化された。(Border control operations were strengthened to prevent the inflow of infectious diseases.)
Formal/Official— Literally means 'under the water's surface'. It refers to activities or situations that are happening secretly or behind the scenes, often involving negotiations or developments not yet public.
水面下では、両国間の交渉が進められている。(Negotiations between the two countries are proceeding beneath the surface.)
General— Literally means 'water and oil'. It describes two things or people that are completely incompatible and cannot mix or get along.
あの二人は性格が水と油のように違うので、一緒に仕事をするのは難しい。(Those two have personalities as different as water and oil, so it's difficult for them to work together.)
General— Literally means 'to soak in water'. It can refer to physically immersing something in water, or figuratively, to immerse oneself in something, like studying or a particular atmosphere.
この料理は、ソースにパンを水に浸して食べるのが美味しい。(This dish is delicious when you soak bread in the sauce.)
General— To be entirely occupied with a pointless argument, where no progress is made and only accusations are exchanged.
会議では、具体的な解決策が見いだせず、水掛け論に終始した。(In the meeting, no concrete solutions were found, and it ended up being just a pointless argument.)
GeneralEasily Confused
Both refer to the substance H2O. In casual contexts, 'mizu' is often used even for drinking water.
飲料水 specifically denotes water safe for consumption, emphasizing quality and safety. 水 is a general term for any water, whether potable or not. Using 飲料水 is more precise when safety and purpose are key.
この水は安全ですが、飲料水としてはまだ検査が必要です。(This water is safe, but it still needs testing as drinking water.)
Both refer to water that has been treated and is generally safe to drink.
上水 refers to the treated water supplied by a water utility. 飲料水 emphasizes the act of drinking and the safety for that specific purpose. You can drink 上水 because it is 飲料水.
水道から出る上水は、そのまま飲料水として利用できます。(Tap water is supplied as jōsu i and can be used as drinking water as is.)
Both mean water for drinking.
飲用水 is often used in more technical, legal, or regulatory contexts related to water quality standards. 飲料水 is more common in general discourse, product labeling, and everyday communication about safe drinking water.
水道法における飲用水の基準は厳格です。一方、市場に出回るミネラルウォーターは飲料水として表示されています。(The standards for drinking water in the Waterworks Act are strict. On the other hand, mineral water sold in the market is labeled as drinking water.)
Both are related to water and the concept of 'water'.
汚水 means sewage or polluted water, which is the direct opposite of 飲料水. 飲料水 is safe to drink, whereas 汚水 is hazardous and unfit for consumption.
汚水が河川に流れ込むと、飲料水の水源が汚染される恐れがある。(If sewage flows into rivers, there is a risk of contaminating drinking water sources.)
Both are types of water used for specific purposes.
工業用水 is water used for industrial processes and is not treated to be safe for drinking. 飲料水 is specifically for human consumption.
工場の冷却には工業用水が使われるが、飲料水とは別に管理されている。(Industrial water is used for factory cooling but is managed separately from drinking water.)
Sentence Patterns
〜は飲料水です。
この水は飲料水です。(This water is drinking water.)
飲料水をください。
ペットボトルの飲料水をください。(Please give me a bottle of drinking water.)
飲料水の確保が大切です。
非常時には、飲料水の確保が大切です。(In an emergency, securing drinking water is important.)
〜を飲料水として利用する。
この井戸水は飲料水として利用できます。(This well water can be used as drinking water.)
飲料水の安全基準
飲料水の安全基準を満たしています。(It meets the drinking water safety standards.)
飲料水の供給問題
地域で飲料水の供給問題が発生しています。(A drinking water supply problem has occurred in the region.)
飲料水の持続可能な利用
飲料水の持続可能な利用が求められています。(Sustainable use of drinking water is being called for.)
飲料水の汚染リスク
飲料水の汚染リスクについて議論しました。(We discussed the risks of drinking water contamination.)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in formal contexts related to safety, health, and official matters.
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Using 飲料水 when referring to non-potable water.
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Use 水 (mizu) for water not intended for drinking.
飲料水 specifically means water safe for consumption. Calling water for washing dishes or watering plants 飲料水 is incorrect and misleading.
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Overusing 飲料水 in casual conversation.
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Use お水 (o-mizu) or 水 (mizu) in casual settings.
飲料水 has a formal or technical feel. In everyday chat, asking for 'o-mizu' is more natural than 'inryōsui o kudasai'.
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Confusing 飲料水 with 飲酒 (inshu - drinking alcohol).
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Remember that 飲料水 is about water, while 飲酒 is about alcohol.
Both involve the kanji 飲 (drink), but their meanings are entirely different. 飲料水 is safe to drink; 飲酒 refers to consuming alcohol, which has different implications.
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Assuming all water is 飲料水.
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Be aware of the source and safety of water, especially when traveling or in uncertain environments.
Not all water is safe to drink. Even in Japan, while tap water is generally safe, it's wise to be cautious in specific situations or if unsure.
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Mispronouncing the word, especially the long 'ō' and the 'ui' ending.
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Practice the pronunciation 'in-ryō-sui', emphasizing the third syllable and the long 'o' sound.
Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstanding. Mastering the specific sounds of Japanese words is crucial for effective communication.
Tips
Mastering the 'ō' and 'ui'
Pay attention to the long 'ō' sound in 飲料 (inryō) and the 'ui' sound at the end (like 'ee'). Practice saying 'in-ryō-sui' clearly, emphasizing the third syllable. This will help native speakers understand you better.
Formal vs. Informal
飲料水 is best used in formal or neutral contexts like news, official announcements, or product labels. In casual chat, simply saying お水 (o-mizu) or 水 (mizu) is more common and natural when asking for a drink.
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 飲 (drink) + 료 (purpose/use) + 水 (water). Visualize someone drinking water with a specific purpose – to stay healthy. This visual cue can help you remember the meaning and usage.
Japan's Water Quality
Japan is known for its high tap water quality, often safe to drink directly. While 飲料水 emphasizes guaranteed safety, understanding this context helps appreciate why it's used for official labels and assurances.
Related Terms
Learn related terms like 水道水 (tap water), ミネラルウォーター (mineral water), and 浄水 (purified water). These are all types of 飲料水 and will broaden your understanding of water-related vocabulary.
Shopping for Water
When buying bottled water in Japan, look for the label 飲料水. This confirms that the product is intended and safe for drinking. It's a key term for consumers.
Disaster Readiness
In disaster situations, securing 飲料水 is paramount. Knowing this term is crucial for understanding news reports or instructions during emergencies in Japan.
Common Patterns
Practice using common sentence patterns like '〜は飲料水です' (is drinking water) and '飲料水をください' (Please give me drinking water). This will help you use the word correctly in context.
Choosing the Right Word
While 飲料水 is common, remember 飲用水 (technical) and 飲む水 (descriptive). Choose the term that best fits the formality and context of your communication.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'In Ryō's Sui' – In Ryō drinks water. Imagine someone named Ryō who is very particular about only drinking safe water, hence 'In Ryō's safe drinking water'. The 'sui' part sounds like 'sue', like 'sue the company if the water isn't safe!'
Visual Association
Picture a clear, sparkling bottle of water with a label that says '飲料水' in bold Japanese characters, perhaps with a health symbol like a green cross or a shield.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain the difference between 水 and 飲料水 to someone else, using at least three example sentences for 飲料水 in different contexts (e.g., disaster, restaurant, product label).
Word Origin
The word 飲料水 is a compound word formed from 飲料 (inryō) and 水 (sui). 飲料 itself is derived from the verb 飲む (nomu - to drink). The kanji 飲 (in) means 'to drink', and 료 (ryō) is a suffix often indicating 'purpose' or 'use' (though here it's part of the compound 飲料). 水 (sui) means 'water'.
Original meaning: Literally, 'water for the purpose of drinking'.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
The term 飲料水 is neutral and universally understood in its context of safety and consumption. There are no specific sensitivities associated with its use, other than the general importance of ensuring access to clean water for all.
In English-speaking countries, 'drinking water' is the common term, and 'potable water' is used in more technical or official contexts. The concept is the same: water safe for consumption.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Natural Disasters / Emergency Preparedness
- 飲料水の確保 (Securing drinking water)
- 安全な飲料水 (Safe drinking water)
- 飲料水不足 (Drinking water shortage)
- 緊急飲料水 (Emergency drinking water)
Product Labeling (Bottled Water, Filters)
- 飲料水 (Drinking water)
- 本製品は飲料水です。(This product is drinking water.)
- 飲料水用 (For drinking water)
- 飲料水の基準を満たす (Meets drinking water standards)
Public Health and Government Announcements
- 飲料水の水質管理 (Drinking water quality management)
- 安全な飲料水の供給 (Supply of safe drinking water)
- 飲料水の基準 (Drinking water standards)
- 飲料水の汚染 (Drinking water contamination)
Restaurants and Cafes
- お水 (O-mizu - Water - polite, often implies drinking water)
- 飲料水はございますか？ (Do you have drinking water?)
- 水道水ですが、飲めますか？ (It's tap water, is it drinkable?)
Environmental Discussions
- 飲料水資源 (Drinking water resources)
- 飲料水の持続可能性 (Sustainability of drinking water)
- 飲料水の汚染源 (Sources of drinking water contamination)
- 飲料水へのアクセス (Access to drinking water)
Conversation Starters
"Do you prefer bottled drinking water or tap water?"
"What are the most important factors when choosing drinking water?"
"How do you ensure the drinking water is safe when traveling?"
"What measures are taken in your country to guarantee safe drinking water?"
"What are your thoughts on the environmental impact of bottled drinking water?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when access to safe drinking water was crucial for you or someone you know.
Write about the importance of clean drinking water for public health and the environment.
Imagine you are in charge of a water supply system. What are your top priorities for ensuring safe drinking water for everyone?
Reflect on the convenience and potential drawbacks of bottled drinking water compared to tap water.
Discuss the challenges of providing safe drinking water in areas affected by natural disasters or pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions水 (mizu) is the general word for 'water'. It can refer to any water, whether it's safe to drink or not (e.g., water in a river, water for washing). 飲料水 (inryōsui) specifically means 'drinking water' or 'potable water', emphasizing that it is safe for human consumption. In casual conversation, 'mizu' is often used even when referring to drinking water, but 'inryōsui' is used when safety and purpose are important, especially in formal contexts.
In most urban and developed areas of Japan, tap water (水道水 - suidōsui) is treated to meet safety standards and is generally safe to drink directly as 飲料水. However, in some rural areas or specific situations (like after an earthquake), it's always best to confirm or use purification methods if unsure. So, while often safe, the label 'inryōsui' emphasizes its guaranteed potability.
You should use 飲料水 when you want to specifically highlight that the water is safe to drink. This is common in contexts like: discussing public health and safety, labeling bottled water, during disaster relief efforts (securing drinking water), or when distinguishing potable water from non-potable water (like water for washing).
Yes, there are. 飲用水 (in'yōsui) is a more technical or legal term. 飲む水 (nomu mizu) is a more direct, descriptive phrase meaning 'water to drink'. In very casual settings, お水 (o-mizu) is a polite way to ask for drinking water. However, 飲料水 is the most common and widely understood term for 'drinking water' in general and formal contexts.
No, 飲料水 refers to any water that is safe to drink. This includes tap water if it meets safety standards, purified water, spring water (if tested and deemed safe), and bottled water (like mineral water). The key aspect is its safety for consumption, not its source or packaging.
It is pronounced 'in-ryō-sui'. The stress is on the third syllable: いんりょうすい (in-ryō-su-i). The 'ō' sound is a long 'o', and the 'ui' at the end sounds like 'ee'.
It's commonly used in contexts related to public health, government announcements, disaster preparedness, environmental protection, product labeling (especially for bottled water and filters), and scientific discussions about water quality.
飲料水 is generally considered a formal or neutral term. It's appropriate for official statements, news reports, product descriptions, and serious discussions. In very casual, everyday conversation, people might opt for the simpler 水 (mizu) or the polite お水 (o-mizu).
Certainly. For example: 「災害時には、安全な飲料水の確保が最優先事項です。」 (Saigaiji ni wa, anzen na inryōsui no kakuho ga saiyūsen jikō desu.) This translates to 'During disasters, securing safe drinking water is the top priority.'
Related words include: 飲 (to drink), 水 (water), 飲料 (beverage), 水道水 (tap water), ミネラルウォーター (mineral water), and 浄水 (purified water). These words share a connection to water and its consumption or quality.
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Summary
飲料水 (inryōsui) is the term for drinking water, highlighting its safety and suitability for consumption. It's crucial in discussions about public health, disaster preparedness, and product quality, differentiating it from general water (水).
- 飲料水 (inryōsui) means safe drinking water.
- It's water suitable for consumption, emphasizing safety.
- Used in contexts of public health, disaster relief, and product labeling.
- Distinguished from general 'water' (水).
Context is Key
While 水 (mizu) means 'water', 飲料水 (inryōsui) specifically means 'drinking water' or 'potable water'. Always consider the context. If you're talking about water for washing dishes, use 水. If you're talking about the water you drink, 飲料水 is more precise, especially in formal settings.
Mastering the 'ō' and 'ui'
Pay attention to the long 'ō' sound in 飲料 (inryō) and the 'ui' sound at the end (like 'ee'). Practice saying 'in-ryō-sui' clearly, emphasizing the third syllable. This will help native speakers understand you better.
Formal vs. Informal
飲料水 is best used in formal or neutral contexts like news, official announcements, or product labels. In casual chat, simply saying お水 (o-mizu) or 水 (mizu) is more common and natural when asking for a drink.
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 飲 (drink) + 료 (purpose/use) + 水 (water). Visualize someone drinking water with a specific purpose – to stay healthy. This visual cue can help you remember the meaning and usage.
Example
非常時のために飲料水を準備してください。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More food words
少々
B1A little; a few.
〜ほど
B1About; approximately; degree.
~ほど
B1About, approximately; to the extent of ~.
豊富な
B1Abundant, rich in.
ふんだんに
B1Lavishly; abundantly; generously (e.g., using ingredients).
足す
B1To add (e.g., to a sum, to ingredients).
添加物
B1Additive.
〜てから
B1After doing ~.
~てから
B1After doing (an action).
熟成させる
B1To age; to mature (food).
