くどい

• Reading: くどい
• Romaji: kudoi
• Pronunciation: /kɯ.do.i/

Meaning

Verbose; repetitive; long-winded; overly insistent; gaudy or heavy (of taste or colour). Describes excess in speech, flavour, or visual design.

An i-adjective with two main senses: (1) of speech or manner — tediously repetitive or persistent, failing to get to the point; (2) of taste, colour, or design — heavy, rich, and overwhelming. The first sense is the more common. Someone who is くどい will make the same point multiple times or belabour a topic beyond necessity.

Examples

1. 彼の説明はくどくて、同じ話を三度も繰り返した。 His explanation was so long-winded that he repeated the same thing three times.
2. この絵はデザインがくどく、見ていると目が疲れる。 This painting's design is so gaudy that it tires your eyes just looking at it.
3. くどい言い方をするつもりはないが、この点は重要だ。 I don't mean to be repetitive, but this point is important.

Usage Guide

Context: criticism, communication style, taste, visual design

Tone: mildly critical

Origin & History

Etymology uncertain. Possibly related to archaic roots meaning overcooked or overdone. Has been used in Japanese since the Edo period to describe excess in both speech and sensory experience.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal