腹黒(はらぐろ)い

はらぐろい
i-adjective
scheming; cunning; black-hearted
1. scheming; cunning; black-hearted; malicious
Having hidden malicious or selfish intentions while appearing friendly or innocent on the surface.
あの人(ひと)は腹黒(はらぐろ)い。
That person is scheming.
笑顔(えがお)の裏(うら)に腹黒(はらぐろ)い計算(けいさん)があった。
Behind the smile was cunning calculation.
腹黒(はらぐろ)いキャラクターが人気(にんき)だ。
The scheming character is popular.

ETYMOLOGY:
腹(はら) (belly, inner feelings) + 黒(くろ)い (black) - having a black belly, meaning dark hidden intentions.

CULTURAL NOTE:
In Japanese culture, the 腹(はら) (belly) is considered the seat of true feelings and intentions. A 'black belly' indicates hidden malice.

USAGE:

Strong negative term describing someone who:

  • Hides their true intentions
  • Manipulates others
  • Appears kind but is actually selfish

COLLOCATIONS:

  • 腹黒(はらぐろ)い人(ひと) - scheming person
  • 腹黒(はらぐろ)い性格(せいかく) - cunning personality

RELATED:

  • 狡猾(こうかつ) - cunning, crafty
  • 打算的(ださんてき) - calculating
  • 裏表(うらおもて)がある - two-faced
general
Added 2026.1.21 9:27
07500/07740_haraguroi