Translation and Meaning of: 華美 - kabi
The Japanese word 華美[かび] (kabi) may intrigue students and curious individuals with its sound and writing. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage in everyday Japanese, as well as tips for memorization and curiosities based on reliable sources. If you want to understand how this word is perceived in the Japanese language, you have come to the right place.
Found in contexts ranging from aesthetic descriptions to cultural expressions, 華美 carries interesting nuances. Here at Suki Nihongo, we gather accurate information to help you master not only the translation but also the practical application of this term. Shall we begin?
Meaning and translation of 華美
華美[かび] consists of two kanji: 華 (ka), which refers to splendor or floral, and 美 (bi), associated with beauty. Together, they form a term that describes something luxurious, ornate, or extravagantly beautiful. The most common translation is "ostentation" or "opulence," but the context can adjust its meaning.
Unlike words like 美しい (utsukushii), which indicate pure beauty, 華美 (kabi) carries a connotation of exaggeration. It can be used both positively, to praise something richly decorated, and negatively, suggesting excess. This duality means that its use relies heavily on the speaker's intention.
Origin and cultural use of 華美
The origin of 華美 dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when the imperial court valued refined aesthetics. The term was used to describe clothing, ceremonies, and objects that reflected the luxury of the nobility. Over time, its use expanded to other areas, such as architecture and the arts.
In contemporary culture, 華美 appears in descriptions of fashion, decor, and even events. Festivals like the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto are often referred to as 華美な祭り (kabi na matsuri) due to their elaborate clothing and floats. However, in informal contexts, it can sound critical, such as when commenting on a "too flashy" dress.
How to memorize 華美
A practical tip is to associate the radicals of the kanjis with mental images. 華 reminds us of flowers (like in 花, hana), while 美 evokes mirrors (the radical 大 represents a person with open arms, symbolizing greatness). Together, they form the idea of "beauty that spreads like flowers."
Another strategy is to create flashcards with real phrases, such as "そのドレスは華美すぎる" (sono doresu wa kabi sugiru – "That dress is too ostentatious"). The contrast with terms like 質素 (shisso, "simplicity") also helps to reinforce the meaning by opposition. The important thing is to practice in varied contexts.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 華麗 (Karei) - Beautiful and splendid; it can be used to describe an impressive style or appearance.
- 華やか (Hanayaka) - Brilliant and vibrant; often used to describe something that stands out or is eye-catching.
- 豪華 (Gouka) - Luxurious and magnificent; it generally refers to something that displays wealth and opulence.
- 華燦 (Kasan) - Brilliant and radiant; it can refer to a beauty that stands out for its luminosity.
- 華奢 (Kasha) - Elegant and delicate; suggests a subtle beauty and gracefulness.
- 華麗な (Karei na) - Adjective to describe something that is lush and splendid.
- 華美な (Kabi na) - Deeply ornamental and luxurious; it can refer to something that is extravagantly beautiful.
- 華やかな (Hanayaka na) - Adjective to describe something that is vibrant and impressive.
- 豪華な (Gouka na) - Adjective to describe something that is luxurious and splendid.
- 華燦な (Kasan na) - Adjective to describe something that is radiant and bright.
- 華奢な (Kasha na) - Adjective to describe something that is delicate and elegant.
Romaji: kabi
Kana: かび
Type: Adjective, noun
L: jlpt-n1
Translation / Meaning: pomp; splendor; gaudy
Meaning in English: pomp;splendor;gaudiness
Definition: Something that stands out, something that is vivid.
Quick Access
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Sentences
How to Write in Japanese - (華美) kabi
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (華美) kabi:
Example Sentences - (華美) kabi
See below some example sentences:
Kabi na sōshoku ga heya o kazatte iru
Elaborate decorations beautify the room.
Beautiful decorations are decorating the room.
- 華美な - means "luxurious" or "decorated with elegance."
- 装飾 - means "decoration".
- が - Particle that indicates the subject of the sentence.
- 部屋 - means "room".
- を - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence.
- 飾っている - it is the present continuous form of the verb 飾る (kazaru), which means "to decorate".
Other Words of this Type: Adjective, noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: Adjective, noun
