fragrance

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 香 denotes fragrance or giving off an aroma; its on-readings are こう and きょう, and its kun-readings are か, かおり, and かおる.
• Basic usage: 香り is the noun for an aroma or fragrance, while 香る is the verb for smelling fragrant or giving off an aroma.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 香り / 香る
  • 香り: This noun identifies the aroma or fragrance coming from something such as bread or flowers. Example: 焼きたてのパンの香りが通りまで漂った。
  • 香る: This verb describes flowers, food, or a place giving off a noticeable aroma. Example: 焼きたてのパンが香る店の前で足を止めた。