1.
to bite one's lip; to feel frustrated; to feel deep regret
An idiomatic expression describing the feeling of frustration, vexation, or bitter regret, often when one cannot express their feelings openly or must suppress an emotional reaction.
悔しくて唇を噛んだ。
I bit my lip in frustration.
言い返せず、唇を噛むしかなかった。
Unable to talk back, I could only bite my lip.
あの時もっと頑張ればよかったと、今でも唇を噛む思いだ。
Even now I feel bitter regret, wishing I had tried harder back then.
IDIOM STRUCTURE:
唇 (lip) + を + 噛む (to bite)
The expression describes the physical action of biting one's lip as a metaphor for suppressing emotions, particularly frustration or regret.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 悔しくて唇を噛む - bite one's lip in frustration
- 唇を噛む思い - bitter feelings of regret
- 唇を噛みしめる - to bite down hard on one's lip (intensified form)
NUANCE:
Always indicates negative emotions - frustration, regret, helplessness, or suppressed anger. Often implies the person cannot openly express their feelings or take action.
VARIATION:
唇を噛みしめる is a more intense version, suggesting even stronger suppression of emotion.
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 歯を食いしばる - to grit one's teeth (endurance)
- 拳を握る - to clench one's fist (determination/frustration)
- 涙を呑む - to swallow one's tears (accept disappointment)
REGISTER:
Neutral. Common in both spoken and written Japanese, especially in dramatic or emotional contexts.