1.
hostile; threatening; strained
Describes an atmosphere, relationship, or expression that is tense, antagonistic, or menacing. Often used for situations where conflict feels imminent.
険悪な雰囲気になった。
The atmosphere became hostile.
二人の関係は険悪になっている。
The relationship between the two has become strained.
会議で意見が対立し、険悪なムードが漂った。
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 (atmosphere), 関係 (relationship), or facial expressions.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 険悪な雰囲気: hostile atmosphere
- 険悪な関係: strained relationship
- 険悪な表情: menacing expression
- 険悪なムード: tense mood
- 険悪になる: to become hostile/strained
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 不穏: ominous, unsettled — suggests underlying instability rather than open hostility
- 殺伐: bleak and harsh — describes a cold, violent, or desolate atmosphere
- 緊迫: tense, strained — emphasizes urgency and pressure rather than hostility