1.
to be elegant, to have class, to be refined
Describes a person, thing, or manner that has an inherent elegance, dignity, or refinement. Used as a compliment for someone or something that exudes good taste and sophistication.
彼女は品がある。
She has class.
品のある話し方ですね。
What an elegant way of speaking.
この料亭は品のある雰囲気で、特別な日にぴったりだ。
This traditional restaurant has a refined atmosphere, making it perfect for special occasions.
An idiomatic expression built on 品 (refinement, elegance, class). The negative form 品がない means "to lack class" or "to be vulgar." When modifying a noun, the pattern changes to 品のある＋noun (e.g., 品のある人).
品 here refers to an innate quality of grace and good taste, not "goods" or "items" (another meaning of 品/品物).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 品がある: to have class/refinement
- 品がない: to lack class, to be vulgar
- 品のある＋noun: classy/refined + noun
- 品のない＋noun: vulgar/classless + noun
- 品を感じる: to sense elegance
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 上品: elegant, refined — a na-adjective with a similar meaning but usable as a standalone modifier
- 気品がある: to have dignity/grace — slightly more elevated, often for nobility or royalty
- 品格がある: to have dignity — focuses more on character and moral refinement