B1verb2K

Fancy

UK /["/ˈfænsi/","/ˈfænsiz/","/ˈfænsid/","/ˈfænsiɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈfænsi/","/ˈfænsiz/","/ˈfænsid/","/ˈfænsiɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to want something or want to do something

In simple words: Something that is elaborate, special, or expensive.

Examples

  • I really fancy a slice of chocolate cake right now.
  • Do you fancy going to the movies tonight?
  • She has a fancy dress for the party next week.
  • He drove a fancy car that turned heads everywhere.
  • I fancy that this project will succeed if we all work hard.

Usage notes

Use 'fancy' to describe things that are luxurious or stylish. It might sound pretentious in casual contexts, so consider your audience. When referring to food, it often suggests intricate preparation.

Grammar pattern

fancy + noun

Memory hint

Imagine a fancy restaurant where everything is elegant and beautiful.

Collocations

  • fancy dress
  • fancy restaurant
  • fancy car
  • fancy design
  • fancy party

Synonyms

  • feel like

Antonyms

  • plain
  • simple
  • ordinary

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'fanciful', which means imaginative or unrealistic.
  • Using it redundantly, like saying 'fancy quality' instead of just 'fancy'.
  • Misplacing it in formal contexts where simpler language is preferred.