口味

• Pinyin: kǒu wèi
• Hanzi breakdown: 口 = mouth; 味 = 口 (mouth) + 未 (not yet) — taste/flavor

Meaning

Taste; flavor; personal preference. One's preference in food or more broadly, in other matters.

Describes both the actual flavor of food and one's taste preferences. Extended metaphorically to describe preferences in entertainment, partners, or lifestyle. Regional differences in 口味 are significant in Chinese cuisine.

Examples

1. 这家餐厅的口味偏重，适合北方人。 This restaurant's flavors are on the heavier side, suitable for northerners.
2. 每个人口味不同，萝卜白菜各有所爱。 Everyone has different tastes — to each their own.
3. 这部电影不太合我的口味。 This movie isn't quite to my taste.

Usage Guide

Context: food, preferences, entertainment

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 你的口味是什么？(What's your taste preference?)
• 这道菜口味清淡。(This dish has a light flavor.)

Don't Say

• 混淆口味和味道。(口味 emphasizes preference or style; 味道 is the actual taste sensation)

Origin & History

Compound of 口 (mouth) + 味 (taste/flavor). Literally 'mouth taste.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal