1.
silence, staying mum, keeping quiet
The act of deliberately keeping silent, especially when one is expected to speak or respond. Often implies stubbornness or avoidance.
だんまり refers to deliberately keeping silent, especially when someone is expected to speak. It implies stubbornness, avoidance, or refusal to engage.
Common patterns
- だんまりを決め込む: to clam up, to decide to stay silent (most common expression)
- だんまりを通す: to maintain one's silence throughout
- だんまりを続ける: to continue staying silent
Usage
Carries a somewhat critical or frustrated tone. Used when someone chooses not to speak despite being expected to respond — whether out of stubbornness, guilt, or avoidance. Often applied to companies or public figures who refuse to comment on problems.
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Informal. In formal contexts, 沈黙 (silence) or 無言 (wordlessness) is preferred.