Japanese · Food & Drink
果物
kudamono
Fruit
Definition
Refers to fruit collectively. Japan is famous for its premium fruits, which are often given as high-end gifts.
Example
果物の中ではリンゴが一番好きです。
Among fruits, I like apples the most.
Etymology
The term 果物 (kudamono) combines 果 (ka) meaning 'fruit' and 物 (mono) meaning 'thing.' It has its origins in classical Japanese and reflects the cultural significance of fruit in seasonal Japanese festivals.
How & Where It’s Used
果物 (kudamono) is primarily used in spoken and written Japanese in a variety of contexts including culinary discussions, markets, and home settings. It is appropriate for both formal and informal registers.
Literary Heritage
References to fruit are present in many works of Japanese poetry, as well as in the traditional celebration known as Hanami for cherry blossoms.