Meaning and Usage
The word 調味料 (ちょうみりょう) refers to substances added to food to enhance or alter its flavor, such as salt, soy sauce, sugar, or spices. It is a common noun used in everyday cooking and food-related contexts.
Common Collocations
- 調味料を使う (use seasonings): often used when talking about cooking or preparing food.
- 調味料が多い (too much seasoning): describes a dish that may be overly flavored.
- 調味料を加える (add seasonings): refers to the act of putting seasonings into a dish.
Register and Nuance
調味料 is a neutral, standard term suitable for both casual and formal contexts. It is not slang or overly technical, making it appropriate for conversations, recipes, and food labeling.
Tips for Learners
When using 調味料, be mindful of the quantity and timing, as these affect the taste significantly. Avoid confusing 調味料 with 料理 (cooking/dish) or 食材 (ingredients), as 調味料 specifically means flavoring agents, not the main ingredients themselves.