(ゆる)やか

ゆるやか
na-adjective
gentle, gradual, loose
1. gentle, gradual
Describes a slope, curve, change, or pace that is not steep or abrupt but proceeds slowly and smoothly.
(ゆる)やかな(さか)(のぼ)る。
To climb a gentle slope.
景気(けいき)(ゆる)やかに回復(かいふく)している。
The economy is recovering gradually.
(かわ)(ゆる)やかなカーブを(えが)いて(なが)れている。
The river flows in a gentle curve.
2. loose, relaxed, not tight
Describes something that is not tightly fitted, constrained, or strict. Can refer to clothing, rules, or atmosphere.
(ゆる)やかな(ふく)()る。
To wear loose-fitting clothes.
このクラブは(ゆる)やかなルールで運営(うんえい)されている。
This club operates under relaxed rules.
(ゆる)やかなつながりを大切(たいせつ)にしている。
I value loose, casual connections.

USAGE:
A na-adjective ((ゆる)やかな + noun, (ゆる)やかに + verb). Often used in news and economic reporting for gradual changes. Sense 2 can describe both physical looseness and abstract flexibility.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • (ゆる)やかな(さか): gentle slope
  • (ゆる)やかな回復(かいふく): gradual recovery
  • (ゆる)やかに上昇(じょうしょう)する: to rise gradually
  • (ゆる)やかな規制(きせい): relaxed regulations
  • (ゆる)やかなつながり: loose connections