JLPT N2 Upper Intermediate
冷や汗
Cold sweat induced by fear or illness; figuratively, a nerve-racking experience.
Readings
Other forms
冷汗 less common writing
1 Noun
A Cold Sweat (from sickness or fear)
Describes sweat caused by fear, shock, shame, or intense pain rather than heat or physical exertion.
Example
高熱 で うなされて 、 冷や汗 を びっしょり かいた 。
I was delirious with a high fever and was drenched in a cold sweat.
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2 Noun (used in expressions)
A Close Call / A Nerve-Racking Moment
Represents a state of acute anxiety, extreme embarrassment, or the relief felt after narrowly escaping danger.
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