# Natsukashii

/nɑtsukɑˈʃi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/natsukashii
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

a Japanese word for the feeling of happy nostalgia you get when something small reminds you of a good memory from the past. It is a positive feeling, like seeing an old toy or hearing a song you loved as a child.

For teachers: Describes a specific Japanese emotional state of nostalgic longing triggered by a sensory memory. Unlike the English 'nostalgia', which can imply sadness or a desire to return to the past, this term focuses on the joy and gratitude felt in the moment of remembering.

## Examples

- Seeing my old school made me feel very natsukashii.
- When the group heard the theme song of their favorite childhood cartoon, they all exclaimed 'natsukashii!' at the same time.
- The film captures that natsukashii quality through its use of warm lighting and familiar domestic sounds, evoking a deep sense of shared cultural memory for the audience.

## Synonyms

nostalgic

## Usage notes

- Used as a predicative adjective in English contexts; often left untranslated because it lacks a direct one-word equivalent that captures its positive tone.

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