格好

かっこう
Alternative readings: かっこ, カッコ
Alternative writings: 恰好
JLPT:N3
Frequency:
1

Shape, form, posture, or the figure/pose of a person or object.

Noun

Examples

猫が変な格好で寝ている。

The cat is sleeping in a strange position.

写真を撮るときはいい格好をしてね。

Strike a good pose when taking the photo, okay?

2

Appearance or style — how someone looks or dresses; overall impression from outward appearance.

Noun

Examples

彼はいつも格好良く服を着ている。

He always dresses stylishly.

そんな格好でデートに行かないほうがいいよ。

You shouldn't go on a date dressed like that.

3

A state or condition; the situation or how things stand (used in phrases like “to shape up” / “not to shape up”).

Noun

Examples

準備ができていないから、今は格好がつかない。

Preparation isn't finished, so things aren't in a presentable state yet.

形は悪いが、仕事としては格好がついた。

It doesn't look great, but as far as the work goes, it's acceptable now.

4

Used adjectivally to mean suitable or opportune (e.g., 格好の〜 meaning 'an ideal/apt ~').

Na-AdjectiveNoun Taking 'の'Noun

Examples

今日は格好の観察日和だ。

Today is a perfect day for observation.

格好の的になるから黙っていなさい。

Keep quiet or you'll become the perfect target.

5

A suffixal use after an age expression to mean “about ~” (somewhat archaic or limited usage).

Noun (Suffix)

Examples

彼女は三十歳格好に見える。

She looks to be about thirty years old.