How to say "cake" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

ケーキJLPT N4approx.Common
nounCovers the food 'cake' itself — a baked dessert such as birthday or sponge cake. This is the word you want when talking about a specific cake, ordering one, or eating it.
ケイトはケーキの作り方つくりかたを知しっています。↗
Kate knows how to make a cake.
菓子かしJLPT N3approx.Common
nounMeans confectionery or sweets in general; 'cake' is only one item in this broad category. It is a slightly formal, written-flavored word, not how you normally refer to a particular cake.
この菓子かしを自由じゆうにお取とり下ください。↗
Please help yourself to these cakes.
お菓子おかしJLPT N5approx.Common
nounThe everyday word for snacks and sweets of all kinds, including cakes, cookies, and candy. Use it when speaking of treats in general, not a specific cake.
お菓子かしで赤あかちゃんが窒息ちっそくするところだった。↗
The baby almost choked on a piece of candy.
甘味あまみCommon
nounRefers to sweet foods or a sweet course; 'cake' is only one possible example. It carries a traditional, often tea-ceremony flavor, and is seldom the word you want for an ordinary cake.

Use 「ケーキ」 for an actual cake; 「お菓子」/菓子 for sweets and snacks generally; 甘味 for sweet courses or desserts, especially in traditional settings.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

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