Meaning

Primary

Stylish

Alternatives

Chic, Tasteful, Classy

Word Type

noun, な adjective

Explanation

The kanji and the word are exactly the same. That means they share meanings as well.

means stylish, chic, or tasteful, but with a nuance of understated elegance or refined coolness. For example, arranging something behind the scenes so things go beautifully might be regarded as – a classy gesture done with style!

Reading

いき
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This word uses the kun'yomi reading, which you haven't learned yet, so here's a mnemonic to help you:

You are stylish. Since you're stylish, you avoid icky (いき) clothing at all costs. You won't even be seen in the same room, that's how stylish you are.

Context

Context Sentences

先生の着物の着こなしって、本当に粋ですよね。めっちゃ憧れます。

The way our teacher wears her kimono is so stylish and classy, isn't it? I really admire it.

へー、それは粋な生き方だね。って、ダジャレじゃないよ!

Oh, that's a classy way to live. And no, that's not a pun!

店長の粋な計らいでデザートがサービスされました。

Thanks to the owner's thoughtful gesture, we got free dessert.

アイツ、自分で粋な会話をしてるって思ってるところがムカツクんだよね。粋にキメてるつもりかもしれないけど、いつもダダすべりだっつーの。

What annoys me is that he thinks he's having these cool, witty conversations. He might think he's pulling it off, but he always falls flat.

Kanji Composition