好み

• Reading: このみ
• Romaji: konomi
• Kanji breakdown: 好 (kou/kono) — like, fond of
• Pronunciation: /ko.no.mi/

Meaning

Liking; taste; preference. One's personal inclination or choice.

A noun derived from the verb 好む (to like, to prefer). Used to describe personal preferences in food, fashion, music, and other areas. Often appears as お好み (honorific form, as in お好み焼き) or in the pattern 好みに合う (to suit one's taste). Also used as an adjective-like modifier with の.

Examples

1. 味の好みは人それぞれ違う。 Everyone has different taste preferences.
2. お好みのドレッシングを選んでください。 Please choose your preferred dressing.
3. 彼女の服の好みはとてもシンプルだ。 Her taste in clothing is very simple.

Usage Guide

Context: food, fashion, personal preferences

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Derived from the verb 好む (to like, to favor), which uses the kanji 好 combining 女 (woman) and 子 (child) — originally symbolizing something lovable or pleasing.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal