1.
behavior, manner, attitude
The outward behavior or demeanor that reveals or conceals one's true feelings or intentions.
何食わぬ素振りをする。
To act as if nothing happened.
彼は知っている素振りを見せなかった。
He didn't show any sign that he knew.
平気な素振りをしていたが、実は傷ついていた。
She was acting like she was fine, but she was actually hurt.
2.
sign, indication, hint
A subtle sign or indication of something, especially an attitude or feeling that shows through one's behavior.
怒っている素振りがあった。
There were signs that he was angry.
彼女は帰りたい素振りを見せた。
She showed signs of wanting to go home.
不満の素振りも見せず、黙々と働いた。
Without showing the slightest sign of dissatisfaction, he worked silently.
READING NOTE:
素振り (behavior/sign) vs. 素振り (practice swing in sports) — same kanji, different readings and meanings. This entry covers the そぶり reading.
KEY EXPRESSION:
何食わぬ素振り — "an innocent look," acting as if one knows nothing or has done nothing wrong. This is one of the most common uses.
PATTERNS:
- ～素振りを見せる: to show signs of ~
- ～素振りを見せない: to not show any sign of ~
- ～な素振りをする: to act/behave as if ~
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 何食わぬ素振り: innocent look
- 平気な素振り: composed behavior
- 不安な素振り: anxious behavior
- 素振りも見せない: not show the slightest sign