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渋面

jūmen
grimace

彼は渋面をして、不満そうに言った。

He made a grimace and said with dissatisfaction.


neutral

A facial expression showing displeasure or dissatisfaction, often with the mouth turned down or lips pressed together.

上司の渋面を見て、部下は何も言えなかった。

Seeing his boss's grimace, the subordinate couldn't say anything.

渋面を作って、彼はその報告書を拒否した。

With a grimace, he rejected the report.

Often used to describe someone's reaction to unpleasant news, criticism, or disapproval.

Collocations

渋面をするto make a grimace渋面を浮かべるto show a grimace

Synonyms

不快な表情困った顔

Antonyms

笑顔満足げな顔

Pro Tip

Contextual Usage

渋面 is often used when someone is reacting to something they dislike but are trying to remain polite. It can be a subtle way to show disapproval without outright saying it.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While 渋面 is useful for describing facial expressions, avoid using it in overly dramatic or exaggerated contexts, as it implies a more subtle displeasure.

Word Origin

The word combines 渋 (shibu, 'astringent' or 'bitter') and 面 (men, 'face'), suggesting a facial expression that is tight or bitter, akin to the taste of an unripe fruit.

Usage Notes

渋面 is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone's displeased expression. It does not imply anger but rather mild dissatisfaction or discomfort.

Word Breakdown

渋
astringent, bitter, or tight (often used metaphorically for facial expressions)
root
+
面
face
root
和英辞典

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Words of the Year

The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.