入浴

にゅうよく

bathe, bathing

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"入浴" (にゅうよく) specifically refers to the act of bathing, often implying soaking in a bathtub or hot spring rather than just washing. It is a formal noun commonly used in written and spoken Japanese, especially in contexts related to health, hygiene, or bathing routines.

Common Contexts

You will often see "入浴" used in health advice, spa or hot spring descriptions, and daily routine discussions. It is more formal than just saying "お風呂に入る" (to take a bath) and is frequently used in medical or wellness contexts.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 入浴する: to bathe (the verb form)
  • 入浴時間: bathing time
  • 入浴剤: bath additive or bath salts
  • 入浴中: while bathing

These collocations help express specific aspects of bathing, such as duration, products used, or the action itself.

Register and Nuance

"入浴" is polite and somewhat formal, suitable for written language, health instructions, or polite conversation. In casual speech, people often say "お風呂に入る" instead.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "入浴" with just washing or showering. Remember, "入浴" implies soaking or bathing, often in a tub or hot spring, not just rinsing off.

Example Sentences

まいばん、ゆっくりにゅうよくしてからねます。

Every night, I take a long bath before going to bed.

にゅうよくちゅうはスマホをつかわないようにしています。

I try not to use my smartphone while bathing.

おんせんでのにゅうよくはからだによいとされています。

Bathing in hot springs is considered good for the body.