Japanese · Adjectives

安い

yasui

Cheap / Inexpensive

Beginneradjective

Definition

Describes something low in price. Also used in the meaning of safe or stable in some compound words, as in 安心 (anshin, peace of mind).

Example

このスーパーは野菜が安いです。

Vegetables are cheap at this supermarket.

Etymology

'安い' (yasui) is derived from '安' (an), meaning safe or inexpensive. This has historical connections to trade and economy in Japan, where affordability was highlighted.

How & Where It’s Used

'安い' is often used in informal contexts, especially in discussions about consumer products or budgeting, and has good clarity across different dialects.

Watch “Cheap / Inexpensive” pronunciation on YouTube
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