模様

• Reading: もよう
• Romaji: moyou
• Kanji breakdown: 模 (mo) — model, pattern; 様 (you) — manner, appearance
• Pronunciation: /mo.joː/

Meaning

Pattern; design; figure. A decorative design or the state of affairs.

A noun with two main uses: (1) visual patterns or designs on fabric, pottery, and other surfaces — 花模様 (flower pattern), 縞模様 (stripe pattern), 水玉模様 (polka dot pattern); and (2) the state or condition of something — 空模様 (weather conditions), 雲行きが怪しい模様 (it seems the situation is suspicious). Context determines the meaning.

Examples

1. この着物の模様がとても美しい。 The pattern on this kimono is very beautiful.
2. 空模様が怪しいから傘を持って行こう。 The sky looks threatening, so let's bring an umbrella.
3. 子供が紙に花の模様を描いた。 The child drew a flower pattern on the paper.

Usage Guide

Context: art, fashion, weather

Tone: descriptive

Origin & History

Composed of 模 (mo, model/pattern) and 様 (you, manner/appearance). Originally referred to the form or shape of something, later specialized to mean decorative patterns and observable conditions.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal