How to say "gorgeous" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • na-adjectiveCovers the glamorous, luxurious sense of 'gorgeous': sumptuous, extravagant appearance. Typical of a flashy outfit, a lavish interior, or a rich, showy lifestyle.
  • きらびやかJLPT N1approx.Common
    na-adjectiveCovers the dazzling, glittering sense of 'gorgeous': brilliant sparkle that catches the eye. Typical of glittering jewelry, sparkling stage costumes, or brightly shining festive dress, with a hint of gaudy excess possible.
  • 華やかはなやかJLPT N1approx.Common
    na-adjectiveCovers the bright, colorful, festive sense of 'gorgeous': showy, cheerful beauty. Typical of colorful celebrations, brightly dressed guests at a party, or a scene made lively and brilliant.
    ショービジネスというのは本当ほんとうに華はなやかだ。↗
    Show business is really glamorous.
  • 華麗かれいCommon
    na-adjectiveCovers the splendid, magnificent sense of 'gorgeous': elegant, graceful brilliance rather than mere flashiness. Typical of a graceful stage performance, a magnificent figure, or refined, dazzling beauty.
    女王じょおうは華麗かれいな銀色ぎんいろのドレスを着きていた。↗
    The queen was wearing a magnificent silver dress.
  • 絢爛けんらんCommon
    taru-adjective, adverb (with と)Covers the ornate, resplendent sense of 'gorgeous': rich, dazzling brilliance. Typical of lavishly ornamented decoration, resplendent dress, or anything glowing with dense, brilliant color.

Choose 「ゴージャス」 for glamorous, luxurious flashiness, 「きらびやか」 for dazzling sparkle, 「華やか」 for bright, festive colorfulness, 華麗 for elegant, splendid brilliance, and 絢爛 for ornate, resplendent splendor.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents
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JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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