1.
clicking one's tongue; tsk; tutting
The sound made by clicking the tongue against the roof of the mouth, expressing irritation, annoyance, or displeasure. Considered rude in Japanese culture.
彼は舌打ちをした。
He clicked his tongue.
電車に乗り遅れて、思わず舌打ちした。
I missed the train and couldn't help but click my tongue in frustration.
上司の前で舌打ちするのは絶対にやめたほうがいい。
You should absolutely avoid clicking your tongue in front of your boss.
A compound of 舌 (tongue) and 打ち (striking, from 打つ). Used with する to form a verb: 舌打ちする.
CULTURAL NOTE:
In Japan, 舌打ち is considered very rude and aggressive. Even doing it unconsciously can offend people nearby. It signals open displeasure and is associated with ill temper.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 舌打ちをする (to click one's tongue)
- 思わず舌打ちする (to involuntarily click one's tongue)
- 小さく舌打ちする (to click one's tongue quietly)