スパイス

すぱいす
noun
spice
1. spice, seasoning
An aromatic or pungent substance used to flavor food. Also used figuratively to mean something that adds interest or excitement.
カレーにスパイスを加(くわ)える。
To add spices to curry.
このスパイスは香(かお)りがいい。
This spice has a nice aroma.
スパイスを何種類(なんしゅるい)も使(つか)って本格的(ほんかくてき)なカレーを作(つく)った。
I made an authentic curry using many different spices.

USAGE:
スパイス refers to dry seasonings and aromatics (cumin, turmeric, pepper, etc.), as distinct from 調味料(ちょうみりょう) (seasonings in general, including soy sauce, salt, etc.). スパイスカレー (spice curry) is a popular genre of curry in Japan that emphasizes individual spices over pre-made roux.

The figurative use (something that adds excitement to life) mirrors the English metaphor: 人生(じんせい)のスパイス (the spice of life).

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • スパイスを効(き)かせる: to season well with spices
  • スパイスカレー: spice curry
  • 香辛料(こうしんりょう): spices (more formal synonym)
  • スパイスの香(かお)り: the aroma of spices
general
Added 2026.2.13 5:10
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