高級

The term refers not only to a high price tag but also to superior quality, prestige, and social status. While "kōka" (高価) simply means "expensive" in terms of monetary value, "kōkyū" (高級) implies a level of luxury, elegance, or high grade that is recognized socially.

In the context of people, it is used almost exclusively for professional ranks or official positions, such as "kōkyū kanryō" (high-ranking government official). It does not describe a person's character or personal wealth directly, but rather their formal standing within a hierarchy.

When describing products, it often carries a nuance of "high-end" or "premium." It is commonly used in marketing and daily conversation to categorize goods that are targeted at a wealthy demographic or intended for special occasions.