1.
connoisseur; expert judge; discerning eye
A person with the ability to judge the quality or authenticity of things — especially art, antiques, food, or other specialized items. Also refers to the ability itself.
彼は骨董品の目利きだ。
He is a connoisseur of antiques.
魚の目利きができる人は少ない。
Few people can judge the quality of fish.
あの店の店主は目利きが確かで、良いものばかり並んでいる。
The shop owner has a reliable eye for quality — only good items are on display.
USAGE:
Can refer either to the person (目利き = connoisseur) or to the skill of judging (目利きができる = to be able to appraise). Commonly used in contexts involving antiques, art, gemstones, fish, and other items where expert evaluation matters.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 目利きが確か (having a reliable eye)
- 目利きができる (to be able to judge quality)
- 目利きの力 (the ability to appraise)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 鑑定: appraisal — more formal, often professional
- 通: connoisseur — broader term for someone knowledgeable
- 見る目がある: to have a good eye — more casual expression