Meaning and Usage
The word 服装 (ふくそう) refers to clothes or attire in a general sense. It is often used when talking about the style or appropriateness of clothing for certain occasions or settings.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 服装 used in contexts like parties, work, school, or events where dress codes or styles matter. For example, asking about the dress code for a party or describing someone's neat or casual attire.
Collocations and Patterns
- 服装規定 (ふくそうきてい): dress code, rules about clothing
- 服装を整える (ふくそうをととのえる): to arrange or tidy one's attire
- 服装に気をつける (ふくそうにきをつける): to pay attention to one's clothing
Register and Nuance
服装 is a neutral and somewhat formal word, suitable for both spoken and written Japanese. It is more formal than simply saying "服" (clothes) and is often used in official or polite contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 服装 with 衣服 (いふく), which also means clothing but is more formal and often used in legal or technical contexts. Use 服装 for everyday and social situations involving attire.