kimono
mediumneutral to formal
Definition
Meaning
A traditional Japanese garment with wide sleeves, tied with a sash, worn by both men and women.
Any loose robe or gown resembling this, or metaphorically, something that covers or envelops; also used in business slang for transparency.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In Western contexts, often refers to dressing gowns or robes inspired by Japanese style; can carry connotations of elegance, tradition, or concealment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes Japanese culture, tradition, and elegance.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American English due to broader cultural exposure, but comparable in frequency.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
wear [kimono]be dressed in [kimono][kimono] made of [material]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “open the kimono”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
In business slang, 'open the kimono' means to share confidential information to build trust.
Academic
Used in studies of Japanese culture, fashion history, and textile arts.
Everyday
Referenced when discussing traditional clothing, travel to Japan, or costume events.
Technical
In fashion design, refers to a specific garment cut with straight seams and wide sleeves.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- She purchased a kimono-inspired jacket for the event.
American English
- He wore a kimono-style robe after his shower.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She has a red kimono.
- I saw a kimono in the shop.
- He bought a traditional kimono as a souvenir from Japan.
- During the festival, women often wear beautiful kimonos.
- The silk kimono was embroidered with cranes and flowers, symbolizing longevity and beauty.
- In her wedding, she chose a white kimono to honour her heritage.
- Contemporary designers have deconstructed the kimono, integrating its elements into haute couture while challenging traditional norms.
- The metaphor of 'opening the kimono' in corporate negotiations underscores the value placed on transparency.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Kim' wearing a 'mono' (one) special robe – kimono.
Conceptual Metaphor
A kimono can represent tradition, concealment, or cultural identity.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- In Russian, 'кимоно' is a direct loanword, but ensure stress is on the second syllable in English, not the first.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'kimono' as an uncountable noun; it is countable (e.g., kimonos).
- Mispronouncing with stress on the first syllable.
Practice
Quiz
What is the core meaning of 'kimono'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A kimono is a traditional Japanese robe with wide sleeves, tied with a sash, worn for formal occasions by both men and women.
In British English, it's pronounced /kɪˈməʊ.nəʊ/, and in American English, /kɪˈmoʊ.noʊ/, with stress on the second syllable.
Yes, kimonos are worn by both men and women, though men's kimonos are typically more subdued in colour and pattern.
Primarily, but it can refer to any similar robe in Western fashion or be used metaphorically, such as in the business idiom 'open the kimono'.