険悪|けんあくken'aku[0]heiban (flat)

1. na-adjective, noundangerous; perilous; threatening; stormy; volatile; tense; critical; serious
   事態じたいは険悪けんあくだ。↗

   The outlook is grim.
2. na-adjective, nounstern (expression); hostile (attitude); sharp; harsh

• Related険しいけわしいNeutralAn i-adjective for steep mountain paths or a stern look; it stresses rugged terrain, while 「険悪」 stresses tense, hostile relations or atmosphere.
• Related厳しいきびしいNeutralThe most widely used adjective for strictness or severity; unlike 「険悪」, it does not necessarily imply hostility.
• Related荒れ模様あれもようNeutralSuggests stormy weather or a situation about to turn turbulent; its focus is on trouble that is brewing rather than hostility already in the air.
• Related険相けんそうWrittenA written, formal word for a forbidding look; it stresses a frightening expression on the face, as in 「険相な顔つき」.
• RelatedいかめしいNeutralDescribes a dignified, imposing appearance that inspires awe; it carries no sense of hostility.
• Antonym円満えんまんNeutralAntonym meaning harmonious and peaceful; it describes relations free of the tension implied by 「険悪」.
• Antonym親密しんみつNeutralAntonym meaning close and intimate; it contrasts with 「険悪」 said of relations that have soured.
• Antonym友好的ゆうこうてきNeutralAntonym meaning friendly; it stands opposite the hostile, tense feel of 「険悪」.

Use 「険悪」 for tense relations or an atmosphere on the verge of blowing up, as in 「険悪な雰囲気」 or 「仲が険悪になる」. For steep mountain paths say 「険しい」, for strictness 「厳しい」, for a situation about to turn stormy 「荒れ模様」; the opposites are 「円満」 and 「友好的」.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

1. 悪わるいことが起おこりそうな情勢じょうせいで油断ゆだんできないこと。また、そのさま。
2. 表情ひょうじょうなどがとげとげしいこと。また、そのさま。