険悪(けんあく)

けんあく
na-adjective
hostile; threatening; strained
emotion
1. hostile; threatening; strained
Describes an atmosphere, relationship, or expression that is tense, antagonistic, or menacing. Often used for situations where conflict feels imminent.
険悪(けんあく)な雰囲気(ふんいき)になった。
The atmosphere became hostile.
二人(ふたり)の関係(かんけい)は険悪(けんあく)になっている。
The relationship between the two has become strained.
会議(かいぎ)で意見(いけん)が対立(たいりつ)し、険悪(けんあく)なムードが漂(ただよ)った。
Opinions clashed at the meeting, and a hostile mood hung in the air.

Describes situations charged with tension or hostility, where conflict seems likely to break out. Most commonly modifies 雰囲気(ふんいき) (atmosphere), 関係(かんけい) (relationship), or facial expressions.

Common collocations

Similar words

  • 不穏(ふおん): ominous, unsettled — suggests underlying instability rather than open hostility
  • 殺伐(さつばつ): bleak and harsh — describes a cold, violent, or desolate atmosphere
  • 緊迫(きんぱく): tense, strained — emphasizes urgency and pressure rather than hostility

Related Words

Compare: 不穏(ふおん) (ominous, unsettled)
Compare: 殺伐(さつばつ) (bleak and harsh)
Compare: 緊迫(きんぱく) (tense, strained)
Compare: 仲(なか)が悪(わる)い (on bad terms)
general
Added 2026.3.28 14:20 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
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