chinoiserie
/ʃi.nwaz.ʁi/feminine
The English word chinoiserie is translated into French as chinoiserie.
In French, chinoiserie refers to an artistic style that reflects the influence of Chinese art. It is also used to describe individual decorative objects that have been created in that specific style.
Meaning: style in art that reflects the influence of Chinese art (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun chinoiserie is feminine. For example, you would say une chinoiserie to mean a chinoiserie.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables and is pronounced /ʃi.nwaz.ʁi/.
Did you know?
- In a negative context, chinoiseries can refer to absurdities, nonsense or 'tall tales' that are intentionally confusing.
- During the 18th century, the obsession with this style led to the creation of entire themed rooms in French estates known as cabinets chinois.
- The suffix -erie used in chinoiserie is the same one found in the French word boulangerie, but while the latter denotes a professional place, in this context it often implies a sense of 'falseness' or 'pretence'.
Examples in context
- La chinoiserie est très à la mode cette année.Chinoiserie is very fashionable this year.
- Elle possède une magnifique chinoiserie dans son salon.She has a magnificent piece of chinoiserie in her living room.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are visiting an art museum.
- GabrielRegarde ce vase, c'est une belle chinoiserie.Look at this vase, it is a beautiful piece of chinoiserie.
- LéaC'est vrai, les motifs sont très fins.It's true, the patterns are very delicate.
- GabrielTu aimes ce genre de style ?Do you like this kind of style?
- LéaOui, j'aime beaucoup la chinoiserie.Yes, I like chinoiserie very much.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “chinoiserie” translations and entries chinoiserie, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
