めっきり

What it means

What does めっきり mean? It denotes a noticeable, striking change that stands out compared to what came before, often implying a shift in degree or condition that is more pronounced than usual.

Main meanings

• noticeably; markedly; dramatically — describes a change that stands out relative to the past
• often implies suddenness or a clear departure from previous conditions
• applies to weather, physical changes, or situations that become conspicuously different

How to use it

Used as an adverb to describe a noticeable change in degree or condition. It appears in both spoken and written Japanese, slightly formal or literary, and is commonly paired with verbs like なる, 変わる, 減る, or 太る to express a change that is obvious or dramatic relative to the past.