1.
safe; acceptable; passable
Describes a choice, action, or result that is free from risk or objection—not outstanding but unlikely to cause problems. Often used when recommending a conservative or middle-of-the-road option.
無難な色を選んだ。
I chose a safe color.
黒いスーツが一番無難だと思う。
I think a black suit is the safest choice.
初めてのプレゼントなら、無難なものにしておいたほうがいい。
If it's your first time giving a present, it's better to go with something safe.
USAGE:
無難 is a na-adjective that modifies nouns with な: 無難な選択 (a safe choice). It can also be used as a standalone predicate: これが無難だ (this is the safe bet). The word carries a slightly lukewarm nuance—choosing 無難 means avoiding failure rather than pursuing excellence.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 無難な選択 (safe choice)
- 無難な答え (safe answer)
- 無難にこなす (handle something without incident)
- 無難に済ませる (get through something safely)
SIMILAR WORDS:
安全 refers to physical safety, while 無難 is about avoiding criticism or risk in social situations. 当たり障りのない means inoffensive and is close in nuance, but focuses more on not causing discomfort.