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渋い顔する
shibui kao o suru
look displeased
彼は渋い顔をして、なかなか承諾しない。
He looked displeased and wouldn’t agree right away.
informal
To make a face showing displeasure, dissatisfaction, or reluctance, often with a frown or tight expression.
上司は渋い顔をして、提案を却下した。
The boss frowned and rejected the proposal.
彼女は渋い顔をしながらも、その仕事を引き受けた。
She accepted the job, though with a look of reluctance.
Commonly used in situations where someone is hesitant or unhappy about a decision, request, or outcome.
Pro Tip
Contrast with related expressions
渋い顔する focuses on a facial expression of displeasure, while 不機嫌な顔をする is more general and can include broader signs of bad mood. しかめっ面をする is stronger, implying a more pronounced frown or grimace.
Word Origin
渋い (shibui) means 'bitter' or 'astringent,' often used metaphorically to describe a sour or displeased expression. 顔 (kao) means 'face,' and する (suru) means 'to do.' The phrase combines these to describe the act of making a displeased facial expression.
Usage Notes
This phrase is typically used in informal or conversational contexts. It implies a mild or subtle dissatisfaction rather than outright anger. In formal writing, alternatives like '不機嫌な表情をする' may be preferred.
Word Breakdown
渋い
bitter, astringent (metaphorically: displeased expression)
adjective顔
face
nounする
to do (here: to make a facial expression)
verb和英辞典