花言葉(はなことば)

はなことば
noun
language of flowers, flower symbolism
plant-flower
1. language of flowers, flower symbolism
The symbolic meaning assigned to a particular flower. In Japan, as in Western culture, different flowers carry specific meanings, and awareness of these meanings influences gift-giving and ceremonial contexts.
薔薇(ばら)の花言葉(はなことば)は「愛(あい)」だ。
The flower language of roses is 'love'.
花言葉(はなことば)を調(しら)べてからプレゼントの花(はな)を選(えら)んだ。
I looked up the flower meanings before choosing flowers as a gift.
結婚式(けっこんしき)のブーケには花言葉(はなことば)が「幸福(こうふく)」の花(はな)が使(つか)われることが多(おお)い。
Flowers with the symbolic meaning of 'happiness' are often used in wedding bouquets.

Usage

The concept of 花言葉(はなことば) is well known in Japan and frequently appears in everyday conversation, particularly around gift-giving occasions. Japanese flower symbolism overlaps significantly with the Western tradition but includes some uniquely Japanese associations, such as 桜(さくら) (cherry blossom) symbolizing the transience of life.

Common collocations

  • 花言葉(はなことば)を調(しら)べる: to look up flower meanings
  • ～の花言葉(はなことば): the flower meaning of ~
  • 花言葉(はなことば)で選(えら)ぶ: to choose based on flower language
general
Added 2026.2.27 17:29 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
13500/13974_hanakotoba