言い掛かり

• Reading: いいがかり
• Romaji: iigakari
• Kanji breakdown: 言 (gen/i) — say, word; 掛 (ka/ka) — hang, attach, impose
• Pronunciation: /iː.ɡa.ka.ɾi/

Meaning

False accusation; unfounded complaint; trumped-up charge. Picking a fight with baseless or exaggerated claims.

A noun describing an unfair or groundless verbal attack, accusation, or complaint. Unlike legitimate criticism, 言い掛かり implies the accusations are fabricated or exaggerated with malicious intent. Often used in the phrase 言い掛かりをつける (to make unfounded accusations against someone). Carries a strong sense of injustice felt by the accused party.

Examples

1. それは完全な言い掛かりで、私には何も落ち度がない。 That is a complete false accusation — I have done nothing wrong.
2. 彼は些細なミスに言い掛かりをつけて、彼女を追い詰めた。 He seized on a trivial mistake to level unfounded accusations at her and drove her into a corner.
3. 証拠もないのに犯人扱いされるのは、ただの言い掛かりだ。 Being treated as a culprit without any evidence is nothing but a trumped-up charge.

Usage Guide

Context: conflict, law, workplace, relationships

Tone: indignant, accusatory

Origin & History

言い (verbal action) + 掛かり (grasping, clinging, imposing charges). The 掛かり element implies aggressively latching onto someone with accusations, like grabbing hold of them.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adult

Social background: General