かっこう

格好

appearance, manner, shape, form, posture

JLPT N4

Meaning and Usage

The word "かっこう" (格好) primarily refers to one's appearance, shape, or posture. It is often used to describe how someone looks or the way they are dressed. It can also imply the manner or style in which something is done.

Common Contexts

  • Describing someone's outfit or general look.
  • Talking about posture or physical stance.
  • Expressing impressions about someone's manner or style.

Collocations and Patterns

  • かっこうを気にする: to care about one's appearance.
  • かっこうが悪い: to have a bad or untidy appearance.
  • そのかっこうで: used to comment on someone's current dress or style, often with a nuance of surprise or disapproval.

Register and Nuance

"かっこう" is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and polite conversations. It is common in everyday speech when commenting on looks or style.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "かっこう" with "かっこいい" (cool, good-looking). Remember that "かっこう" is a noun referring to appearance or form, while "かっこいい" is an adjective meaning "cool" or "stylish."

Example Sentences

かれはいつもかっこうをきにしている。

He is always concerned about his appearance.

かっこうがわるくても、こころはやさしいひとです。

Even if his appearance is bad, he is a kind-hearted person.

そのかっこうでそとにでるのははずかしいよ。

It's embarrassing to go outside dressed like that.