Nelson Denny Practice Test 2026 – Complete Reading and Vocabulary Prep

The term 'garish' is commonly used to characterize something that is excessively bright, flashy, or showy, often to the point of being considered tasteless or vulgar. This usage is particularly applicable in the context of art or fashion, where items may be adorned with too many colors, patterns, or embellishments that clash rather than complement one another.

In this sense, 'garish' conveys a negative connotation, implying that the visual presentation lacks subtlety or elegance. This aligns perfectly with the characterization of art or fashion as overly adorned. The other contexts provided do not capture the essence of 'garish' as effectively; for example, describing calm landscapes typically involves peaceful and muted tones, while natural phenomena and classic literature do not inherently carry the notion of being overly embellished in a way that 'garish' implies. Thus, understanding 'garish' in the context of art or fashion highlights its meaning accurately, illustrating the negative impact of excessive adornment.