JLPT N1 Advanced
水臭い
Unnecessarily formal or distant behavior between close friends, or literally watery and diluted.
Readings
Other forms
水くさい common alternative spelling
1 I-adjective
"Distant" / "Stand-offish"
Refers to behavior that feels cold, distant, or overly formal between people who share a close relationship.
Example
困った こと が あったら 、 何でも 相談 して ね 。 水臭い の は なし だ よ 。
If you're ever in trouble, talk to me about anything. Don't be distant, okay?
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2 I-adjective
"Watery" / "Weak-tasting"
Indicates that a soup, sauce, or alcoholic beverage tastes diluted or has lost its richness due to excess water.
Usage notes & examples
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