1.
frown, disapproval, disfavor
The expression of displeasure or disapproval, typically shown through frowning. Most commonly used in the phrase 顰蹙を買う (to incur someone's displeasure).
顰蹙を買う。
To incur disapproval / to be frowned upon.
彼の発言は顰蹙を買った。
His remarks incurred disapproval.
周囲の顰蹙を買うような行動は控えるべきだ。
You should refrain from behavior that would be frowned upon by others.
顰蹙ものの振る舞い。
Behavior that invites disapproval.
顰蹙 uses two rare kanji meaning "to frown" (顰) and "to knit one's brows" (蹙). The word almost always appears in set phrases.
Key expression:
- 顰蹙を買う (to incur disapproval, be frowned upon - literally: "to buy frowns")
Other patterns:
- 顰蹙もの (something that invites disapproval)
- 顰蹙を招く (to invite disapproval)
Usage notes:
- Describes social disapproval, not personal anger
- Often used when someone's behavior violates social norms or expectations
Related words:
- 不興を買う: to incur displeasure
- 反感を買う: to incur antipathy
- 眉を顰める: to knit one's brows (in disapproval)