1.
to show off; to put on airs; to keep up appearances
To act in a way that makes oneself appear better, richer, or more capable than one actually is. Often implies vanity or insecurity.
見栄を張らなくていい。
You don't need to show off.
Usage
Carries a negative connotation, suggesting that someone is being pretentious or living beyond their means. Commonly used to gently criticize vanity.
Common collocations
- 見栄を張らない (to not show off, to be unpretentious)
- 見栄を張って無理をする (to overextend oneself to keep up appearances)
- 見栄っ張り (show-off; vain person)
Common patterns
Conjugates as a godan verb (張る). 見栄っ張り is a related noun/adjective meaning "vain" or "showy."
Related Words
Related:
虚栄心 (vanity)
Related:
見栄っ張り (show-off)
Compare:
マウンティング (one-upmanship)
Compare:
格好つける (to show off)