Meaning

Primary

Cool

Alternative

Refreshing

Word Type

い adjective

Explanation

This is a single kanji with an on the end, meaning you know it's probably an adjective. What's the adjective form of cool? It's cool.

涼しい is used to describe a comfortable level of coolness, particularly one that's pleasant and refreshing.

Reading

すずしい
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The reading is the kun'yomi reading, but that's the reading you learned with the kanji so you should be able to read this one too. If you need a refresher, here's a mnemonic to help you:

Looking for a place that's cool and refreshing? Go to the Sue Zoo (すず). Imagine swimming with Sue the penguin in the refreshing water of her pool. Feels good!

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 涼しくする

    to make something cool, to make one feel cool

    涼しく感じる

    to feel cool

    涼しくなる

    to become cool

Context Sentences

今日はとても涼しいですね。

It is very cool today, isn’t it?

いいね、そのドレス。涼しそう。

I like that dress. Looks breezy.

涼しい顔でよくそんなこと言えるね。。

How can you say such a thing with an indifferent face?

Kanji Composition