腹黒い
はらぐろい
i-adjective
scheming; cunning; black-hearted
informalpersonality
Conjugation
| Affirmative | Negative | |
|---|---|---|
| Present | 腹黒い | 腹黒くない |
| Past | 腹黒かった | 腹黒くなかった |
| て form | 腹黒くて | 腹黒くなくて |
| Adverbial | 腹黒く | — |
| Conditional ば | 腹黒ければ | 腹黒くなければ |
| Conditional たら | 腹黒かったら | 腹黒くなかったら |
1.
scheming; cunning; black-hearted; malicious
Having hidden malicious or selfish intentions while appearing friendly or innocent on the surface.
Etymology
腹 (belly, inner feelings) + 黒い (black) - having a black belly, meaning dark hidden intentions.
Cultural note
In Japanese culture, the 腹 (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