How to say "slim" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 痩せるやせるichidan verb, intransitive verbA verb meaning to become thin, lose weight, or slim down. It describes a change of state, as in a person slimming through dieting, and is the natural choice when 'slim' is a verb about weight loss.
- na-adjectiveA loanword adjective describing someone or something as slim, with a positive, stylish nuance. Use it for a slim figure or for slim, streamlined objects such as bags or designs.
- 繊細せんさいna-adjective, nounIts glosses center on dainty, delicate, and fine, as in delicate fingers or fine features. It covers 'slim' only in that thin, refined sense, so it is seldom the word you want for a slim body or figure.
- na-adjectiveA loanword meaning slim or slender, typically with the impression of a neat, smartly proportioned figure. It is a good choice when 'slim' suggests an attractively trim build rather than plain thinness.
For 'slim' as losing weight use 「痩せる」; for describing a slim figure choose 「スリム」 or 「スマート」; 繊細 means delicate or fine rather than slim, so it rarely expresses body shape.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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