Japanese word

個性的

Pronunciation

Romajikoseiteki

Meaning

  • na-adjectiveunique

Example

彼女の服装は個性的です。kano jo no fuku sō wa ko sei teki de su

Her style is unique.

Illustration for 個性的 (unique)

More examples

その店は個性的な商品をそろえています。so no mise wa ko sei teki na shō hin o so ro e te i ma su

That store carries distinctive products.

Core concept

Describes a person or thing that shows a recognizable character instead of blending into a common or expected style.

Common phrases

  • 個性的な人ko sei teki na hito

    a unique person

  • 個性的な服装ko sei teki na fuku sō

    a distinctive style

  • 個性的なデザインko sei teki na de za i n

    a unique design

Similar words

独特dokutoku: Has a quality, style, or character that is unlike what is usual.
ユニークyunīku: Has an unusual or original quality that makes it noticeable.
特徴的tokuchōteki: Has noticeable features that clearly identify a person or thing.

Definition in Japanese

一般的なものとは異なる特徴が目立ち、独自の持ち味を感じさせるさま。ip pan teki na mo no to wa koto na ru toku chō ga me da chi doku ji no mo chi aji o kan ji sa se ru sa ma

Word origin

The word is formed from 個性 (kosei, "individuality") and the suffix 的 (teki, "-like" or "characterized by"), making an adjective for something marked by individuality.

Usage tips

  • The English word unique can suggest that something has no equal, while 個性的 (koseiteki) more often highlights a distinctive style or character.

Other meanings

  • distinctivena-adjective
  • individualna-adjective

Opposites

  • 平凡heibonordinaryna-adjective
  • 画一的kakuitsutekiuniformna-adjective

Related words

  • 個性化koseikaindividualizationnoun

Word lists with this word