1.
design, pattern, pictorial motif
The design or pictorial pattern printed or drawn on something, such as fabric, dishes, cards, or packaging.
この皿の絵柄が気に入った。
I like the design on this plate.
花の絵柄のカーテンを選んだ。
I chose curtains with a floral pattern.
トランプの絵柄は国によって違うことがある。
The designs on playing cards can differ by country.
2.
illustration style, art style, drawing style
The visual style of illustrations or artwork, especially in manga, anime, and games. A common topic of discussion among fans.
あの漫画家の絵柄が好きだ。
I like that manga artist's art style.
絵柄が変わって驚いた。
I was surprised that the art style changed.
最近のアニメは絵柄がどれも似ていると言われることがある。
It is sometimes said that recent anime all have similar art styles.
USAGE:
Sense 1 refers to physical designs on objects. Sense 2 is extremely common in manga/anime fan discussion, where 絵柄 is the standard term for an artist's visual style. Fans often discuss whether they like a particular 絵柄 when choosing manga or anime.
WORD FORMATION:
絵 (picture) + 柄 (pattern, design).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 絵柄が好き: like the art style
- 絵柄が変わる: the art style changes
- 花の絵柄: floral design
- 絵柄がかわいい: the design/art style is cute