1.
way of speaking, manner of expression
The way someone phrases things or their tone of voice. Often used when someone's phrasing is perceived as problematic, rude, or noteworthy.
2.
objection, complaint, protest
A formal or informal objection or complaint about something. In sumo, refers to a judge's challenge to the referee's decision.
Common patterns
For sense 1, typically used with の or が to describe someone's speech: 物言いが気になる (the way of speaking bothers me). For sense 2, the set phrase 物言いがつく (an objection is raised) or 物言いをつける (to raise an objection) is standard.
Cultural note
In sumo wrestling, 物言い is a formal challenge by a ringside judge (審判) to the referee's (行司) decision. When 物言い is called, the judges gather in the ring to discuss and may reverse the call.
Common collocations
Related Words
Compare:
言い様 (way of saying)