This site will be taken down March 31st, 2026.

This was not an easy decision to make. For the last couple years, I have been struggling to find motivation for this site and to keep up with basic maintenance and security updates. With the rise of AI and more sophisticated tools, the usefulness of sites like this is questionable and traffic has nose-dived. I just don't have it in me to keep doing this. Thank you all for 10 years of support!

Zach

苦虫

Reading

Kana: にがむし
Romaji: nigamushi
Kana
Romaji

Definition

1

making a sour face (as if having consumed a bitter bug)

Kanji

Readings: ク、 くる.しい、 -ぐる.しい、 くる.しむ、 くる.しめる、 にが.い、 にが.る
Meanings: suffering, trial, worry, hardship, feel bitter, scowl
Readings: チュウ、 キ、 むし
Meanings: insect, bug, temper

Example Sentences

そんなにが(むし)()みつぶしたような(かお)をするなよ。
➥Don't make such a sour face.
Full Entry➤
苦虫(にがむし)()みつぶしたような(かお)で、綾乃(あやの)ちゃんは舌打(したう)ちした。
➥Ayano tutted, making a sour face.
Full Entry➤
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