Japanese word

華美

Pronunciation

Romajikabi

Meaning

  • na-adjectiveshowy

Example

その服は華美です。so no fuku wa ka bi de su

That outfit is showy.

Illustration for 華美 (showy)

More examples

この広告は、華美な色使いを避けています。ko no kō koku wa ka bi na iro zuka i o sa ke te i ma su

This advertisement avoids showy colors.

Core concept

Describes an appearance made striking by rich decoration, often with a sense that it is more elaborate than necessary.

Common phrases

  • 華美なデザインka bi na de za i n

    showy design

  • 華美な色使いka bi na iro zuka i

    showy colors

Similar words

華やかhanayaka: Describes an appearance that is bright, lively, and attractive through vivid decoration or color.
派手hade: Describes an appearance made noticeable by bright colors, striking shapes, or a bold style.
豪華gōka: Describes an appearance marked by luxury, rich decoration, costly materials, or high quality.

Definition in Japanese

華やかで装飾が多く、度を越して派手なさま。hana ya ka de sō shoku ga ō ku do o ko shi te ha de na sa ma

Word origin

The Japanese compound 華美 (kabi, "showy") combines 華 (ka, "splendor") and 美 (bi, "beauty"), linking beauty with elaborate decoration.

Usage tips

  • 華美 (kabi) often describes clothing, interiors, or ceremonies whose decoration seems excessive, so it is more critical than a neutral word for beauty.

Other meanings

  • ornatena-adjective
  • gaudyna-adjective

Opposites

Related words

  • 華美さkabisashowinessnoun

Word lists with this word