1.
offense; impact; harmful effect
Something that causes offense or has a negative impact on others. Most commonly used in the negative form.
当たり障りのない返事をした。
I gave a noncommittal response.
当たり障りのない話題で場を繋いだ。
I kept the conversation going with safe topics.
あまり当たり障りのないことばかり言うのはつまらない。
It's boring to only say things that won't offend anyone.
USAGE:
Almost always used in the negative form 当たり障りのない, meaning "inoffensive," "harmless," or "noncommittal." The positive form is rarely used.
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 当たり障りのない話 - safe/harmless conversation
- 当たり障りのない返事 - noncommittal reply
- 当たり障りのない表現 - inoffensive expression
NUANCE:
Using 当たり障りのない language can be seen as tactful in Japanese culture, but it can also suggest avoiding taking a clear position or being evasive.