渋い

しぶい
Alternative writings: 澁い
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

Astringent or bitter (taste); puckery or tart, often used for tea or certain fruits.

I-Adjective

Examples

この緑茶は少し渋いが香りが良い。

This green tea is a bit astringent but has a good aroma.

熟れていない柿はとても渋い。

Unripe persimmons are very astringent.

ワインの渋さが残る味わいだ。

The wine leaves a lingering astringency.

2

Austere, refined, or understatedly elegant; tastefully subdued (used for colors, fashion, style).

I-Adjective

Examples

彼は渋い色のスーツを好む。

He prefers suits in understated (muted) colors.

渋いデザインの腕時計を買った。

I bought a tasteful, understated wristwatch.

彼女の選ぶインテリアはいつも渋くて落ち着いている。

Her interior choices are always subdued and calm.

3

Having a sullen, sour, or glum expression; used in phrases like 'make a sour face.'

I-Adjective

Examples

上司の注意に彼は渋い顔をしていた。

He made a sour face at his boss's reprimand.

料理が期待外れで、店員は渋い顔をした。

The customer frowned when the dish was disappointing.

4

Stingy or tight-fisted; reluctant to spend money.

I-Adjective

Examples

彼は飲み会の会計でいつも渋い。

He's always stingy when it's time to pay for group dinners.

彼女はプレゼントに対して渋くて高いものを買わない。

She's stingy about presents and won't buy expensive items.