Translation guide
Describes something that attracts attention through bright colors, bold design, or ostentatious display. Japanese has several words that capture different nuances of 'showy', from flashy and gaudy to simply standing out. The most common and versatile word is 派手 (はで), but alternatives like 華やか (はなやか) for glamorous elegance or 目立つ (めだつ) for standing out are also important.
Describing something visually striking in a bold, sometimes excessive way, often with a negative or neutral connotation.
The most common word for 'showy'. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context. Used for clothes, colors, makeup, decorations, etc.
She always wears showy clothes.
Emphatic form of 派手, meaning 'garish' or 'loud'. Often negative.
Means 'gaudy' or 'tawdry', often implying cheap or tasteless showiness.
Describing something that is showy in an elegant, beautiful, or celebratory way.
Describing something or someone that attracts attention by being different or prominent, without implying bright colors.
Verb meaning 'to stand out' or 'to be conspicuous'. Can be used for appearance, behavior, or anything noticeable.
Describing a showy display of wealth, success, or personality, often with a negative connotation of showing off.
Also used for behavior or lifestyle that is flashy or flamboyant.
I don't like showy jewelry.
That tie is a bit too flashy.
That sign is so garish it's an eyesore.
I don't like gaudy makeup.
Implies glamour, brilliance, and elegance. Often used for events, celebrities, or beautiful decorations.
It was a glamorous party.
She wore a dazzling dress.
Means 'glittering' or 'gorgeous', emphasizing sparkling beauty. Often used for jewelry, costumes, or festive decorations.
A stage adorned with glittering decorations.
He stands out because he's tall.
That car has a conspicuous color.
Phrase meaning 'to attract attention' or 'to catch people's eyes'. Often used for striking appearance.
Her fashion always attracts attention.
Means 'to be prominent' or 'to stand out' in a striking way, often for excellence or distinctiveness.
His talent is outstanding.
He leads a flashy lifestyle.
Verb meaning 'to show off' or 'to flaunt'. Used when someone deliberately displays something to impress others.
He's showing off his new car.
Noun meaning 'a love of showiness' or 'a flashy person'.
She loves flashy things and always dresses conspicuously.
a glamorous wedding
If 'showy' means 'conspicuous' without bright colors, use 目立つ (めだつ) instead. For example, 'a showy display of knowledge' would be 知識をひけらかす (ちしきをひけらかす), not 派手.
The garden is showy in spring.