1.
aesthetic sense, aesthetic sensibility, sense of beauty
The ability to perceive and appreciate beauty, or a particular set of aesthetic values and standards. Encompasses both personal taste and culturally shared ideals of beauty.
彼女は美意識が高い。
She has a refined aesthetic sense.
日本人の美意識は四季の移り変わりに深く根ざしている。
The Japanese aesthetic sensibility is deeply rooted in the changing of the seasons.
時代によって美意識は変わるが、素材を生かすという考え方は変わらない。
Aesthetic sensibilities change with the times, but the idea of making the most of materials remains constant.
USAGE:
美意識が高い is a common expression meaning "having a strong/refined aesthetic sense." It is often used to describe people who care deeply about appearance, design, or presentation — from personal grooming to artistic expression.
In discussions of Japanese culture, 美意識 often connects to concepts like 侘び寂び (wabi-sabi), 粋 (chic/stylish), and the appreciation of impermanence.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 美意識が高い: to have a refined aesthetic sense
- 日本の美意識: the Japanese sense of beauty
- 独自の美意識: a unique aesthetic sensibility
- 美意識を磨く: to refine one's aesthetic sense