English Reference
Adjective

flashy

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈfɫæʃi/ UK /flˈæʃi/ flashy

adj.looking expensive or impressive in a way that is meant to get attention. It often suggests that something is a bit too bright or showy.

adj.ostentatiously attractive or impressive, often in a way that suggests a lack of taste or substance. Frequently describes objects, clothing, or behavior intended to signal wealth.


SIMPLE

He drives a flashy red sports car to impress his friends.

CONTEXTUAL

The hotel lobby was filled with flashy gold decorations that felt a bit overwhelming for a business trip.

COMPLEX

While the marketing campaign was flashy and expensive, it failed to address the fundamental flaws in the product's design that consumers had been complaining about for months.

Usage

Often carries a negative connotation of being shallow or over-the-top.

Viewers familiar with Kusama’s flashy polka dots may be surprised to see her bright color schemes in a painting she named “ The Pacific Ocean ,” which looks more like fire than water.

The Conversation· 1 Sept 2026

From flash + -y.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated