1.
somewhat thin, light, or diluted; on the weak side
Formed from 薄い (thin, light, weak, diluted) + め (suffix indicating 'somewhat' or 'on the _ side'). Describes something that is moderately thin, light in color, diluted, or sparse — slightly below average intensity.
コーヒーは薄めにしてください。
Please make the coffee on the weak side.
色は薄めのブルーを選んだ。
I chose a lighter shade of blue.
今日は薄めに塩を振って、素材の味を生かした料理にした。
Today I seasoned lightly with salt and made a dish that brings out the natural flavors.
Formed by attaching め to the adjective stem 薄. This め suffix softens the adjective: '(a little) on the thin/light side.' It is used for color, liquid concentration, fabric thickness, and seasoning.
COMMON USES:
- 味は薄めに: with light seasoning
- 色は薄めに: in a light shade
- 薄めに切る: to cut thinly
- 薄めに塗る: to apply thinly
NOTE: The め suffix can attach to many adjective stems: 厚め (somewhat thick), 濃いめ/こいめ (somewhat strong/dark), 多め (somewhat much), etc.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 薄い: thin, light, diluted — the base adjective; stronger than うすめ
- 淡い: faint, pale — emphasizes delicateness of color or sensation