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kitsch

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kɪtʃ/

KK: /kɪtʃ/

adjective
Definition

Describing something that is considered to be in poor taste because of its overly sentimental or gaudy nature, often appealing to popular or lowbrow culture.


Example

The restaurant's decor was so kitsch that it felt like stepping into a cartoon.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that cafe with the kitsch decor?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's so colorful and fun!
Sloth A
I can't decide if I love the kitsch vibe or if it's too much.
Sloth B
I think it's perfect for a quirky brunch with friends!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tacky
campy
cheesy
Antonyms
sophisticated
refined
elegant
noun
Definition

A style or quality that is considered to be in poor taste because of its overly sentimental or superficial nature, often appealing to popular or lowbrow tastes.


Example

The garden was filled with kitsch decorations, like plastic flamingos and brightly colored gnomes.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new art exhibit downtown?
Sloth B
Yeah, I went last weekend, but it felt a bit like kitsch to me.
Sloth A
Really? I thought it was interesting, but I can see your point.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Kitsch originates from German, where it means something of poor quality or gaudy art. It refers to art or objects that are considered to be in poor taste due to their overly sentimental or superficial nature.

Memory Tip

Think of the German word for something that is of poor quality or gaudy — that's why kitsch refers to art or objects that lack depth or taste.

Visually Confused Words
knitch
kitish
kirsch
kith
kish
itch
Is this page helpful?
Exactly, some pieces were just trying too hard to be trendy.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tackiness
camp
gaudiness
Antonyms
sophistication
elegance
refinement