1.
to frown, to knit one's brows
To draw the eyebrows together in an expression of displeasure, concern, or disapproval.
彼の発言に眉をひそめた。
I frowned at his remark.
眉をひそめるような行為は控えてください。
Please refrain from behavior that would make people frown.
報告を聞いて課長は眉をひそめた。
The section chief frowned upon hearing the report.
電車の中で大声で話す人に、周りの乗客は眉をひそめた。
The other passengers frowned at the person talking loudly on the train.
彼の無礼な態度に、先輩たちはみな眉をひそめた。本人だけが気づいていなかった。
The senior colleagues all frowned at his rude behavior. He was the only one who didn't notice.
STRUCTURE: 眉 (eyebrow) + を + ひそめる (to draw together, contract)
NUANCE: Expresses silent disapproval or concern. Often used to describe a reaction to something improper, worrying, or distasteful. More subtle than openly criticizing.
RELATED EXPRESSIONS:
- 眉を上げる (to raise eyebrows - surprise)
- しかめっ面をする (to make a sour face)
- 顔をしかめる (to grimace)
OTHER 眉 EXPRESSIONS:
- 眉をひそめる: displeasure, concern
- 眉を上げる: surprise
- 眉を寄せる: to furrow brows (similar to ひそめる)
FORMALITY: Slightly literary/formal expression, often seen in written descriptions.