1.
casually; nonchalantly; unobtrusively; in a natural manner
Doing something in a way that appears natural and unforced, without drawing attention to the action. Often implies deliberate subtlety — the person is intentionally acting casual to avoid being noticed or to show consideration.
The adverbial form of さりげない (appearing casual/nonchalant). The base adjective さりげない is itself composed of さる (that) + 気 (feeling/intention) + ない (without) — literally 'without that kind of feeling,' meaning not showing any particular intention.
Common collocations
- さりげなく助ける: to help unobtrusively
- さりげなく聞く: to ask casually
- さりげなく褒める: to compliment naturally
- さりげない気遣い: subtle consideration
Usage
Often used positively to describe considerate behavior — helping someone without making them feel embarrassed, or showing concern without being intrusive. The adjective form さりげない modifies nouns directly: さりげない優しさ (unassuming kindness).