In Chinese culture, especially in the context of rapid economic development, 豪华 is often associated with success, status, and social standing (面子 - miànzi). Owning or experiencing 豪华 things—be it a car, a home, or a banquet—is a tangible way to display one's achievements. This can be contrasted with some Western notions of “luxury.” While 豪华 can describe understated elegance, it more commonly evokes a sense of visible opulence and grandeur. Think of a brightly lit, marble-floored hotel lobby or a car with all the latest high-tech gadgets and chrome trim. This differs from the concept of “quiet luxury” or minimalist high-end design, which prioritizes subtle quality over overt splendor. For example, a simple, handcrafted wooden chair made by a master artisan might be considered a “luxury” item in the West, but a Chinese speaker would be more likely to call it 高级 (gāojí - high-class) or 昂贵 (ángguì - expensive) rather than 豪华, which is reserved for things that are more visually impressive and grand.
豪华 is a common and versatile adjective used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in marketing and daily conversation about high-end goods and services.