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.
Related Words
Contrast:
安全 (physical safety)