1.
response; feedback; resistance felt when doing something
The physical or metaphorical sensation of response or resistance when interacting with something.
ドアをノックしたが手応えがなかった。
I knocked on the door but got no response.
2.
sense of accomplishment; feeling that something was worthwhile
The satisfying feeling that one's efforts have produced a result or made an impact.
今回の面接は手応えがあった。
I felt like the interview went well this time.
手応えのある仕事がしたい。
I want to do work that feels rewarding.
WORD FORMATION:
手 (hand) + 応え (response) → response felt by hand
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 手応えがある (to feel a response/get positive feedback)
- 手応えがない (no response, no feedback)
- 手応えを感じる (to feel a response/accomplishment)
- 手応えのある (rewarding, challenging in a good way)
RELATED ～応え WORDS:
- 歯応え (chewiness, resistance when biting)
- 読み応え (worth reading, substantial read)
- 見応え (worth seeing, visually impressive)
- 聞き応え (worth listening to)
NUANCE:
In interviews or negotiations, 手応えがあった often means sensing a positive reaction from the other party.