How to Say ‘Cooking’ in Japanese
料理
ryouri
[ryoh-ree]
💬 Usage Tip: [料理] can mean “cooking” or “a dish/food” depending on context. Example: [日本料理] “Japanese cuisine.”
🇯🇵 In Japan: Food talk is a safe bonding topic in Japan—sharing favorite [料理] often leads to picking a restaurant together.
Phrase Breakdown
料理
ryouri
[ryoh-ree]
cooking; cuisine; dish (as a category)
料理 can mean the activity of cooking or the food itself. In dating talk, it often comes up as a hobby or skill.
料理が趣味です。
Cooking is my hobby.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager