Japanese Conversation · Level 132
60 words
Japanese word
粋
Pronunciation
Romajiiki
Meaning
- na-adjectivechic
Example
彼の服装は粋です。kare no fuku sō wa iki de su
His outfit is chic.
More examples
店主は、常連客への粋な心遣いで知られています。ten shu wa jō ren kyaku e no iki na kokoro zuka i de shi ra re te i ma su
The owner is known for his thoughtful consideration of regular customers.
Core concept
Describes a polished and appealing manner that shows taste without seeming showy.
Common phrases
粋な計らいiki na haka ra i
a thoughtful gesture
粋な着こなしiki na ki ko na shi
a stylish look
Similar words
洒脱shadatsu: Has a free and sophisticated style expressed with ease and little stiffness.
上品jōhin: Has a refined quality marked by good manners and freedom from vulgarity.
優雅yūga: Has a graceful quality associated with beauty and elegant behavior.
Definition in Japanese
服装や振る舞いなどが洗練され、気が利いていて、さりげない魅力を備えたさま。fuku sō ya fu ru ma i na do ga sen ren sa re ki ga ki i te i te sa ri ge na i mi ryoku o sona e ta sa ma
Word origin
The word 粋 (iki, "chic") is traditionally linked to 意気 (iki, "spirit"), and its refined urban sense developed in Edo-period culture.
Usage tips
- In modern conversation, 粋な (iki na) can praise a thoughtful gesture or well-judged choice, so it need not describe a person's permanent character.
Other meanings
- refinedna-adjective
- stylishna-adjective
- tastefulna-adjective
Opposites
- 無粋busuitastelessna-adjective
- 野暮yaboboorishna-adjective
Related words
- 粋さikisarefinementnoun