無言

• Reading: むごん
• Romaji: mugon
• Kanji breakdown: 無 (mu) — without, lacking; 言 (gon/gen) — words, speech, say
• Pronunciation: /mɯ.ɡoɴ/

Meaning

Silence; speechlessness; without words. The state of deliberately not speaking.

A noun/no-adjective describing the absence of speech. Used as: 無言で (silently/without a word), 無言の圧力 (silent pressure), 無言になる (fall silent). Emphasises deliberate or significant silence — the notable absence of words in a situation where speech might be expected. Common in dramatic or tense contexts.

Examples

1. 彼女は無言で部屋を出て行った。 She left the room without saying a word.
2. 上司の無言の視線が痛かった。 My boss's silent stare was painful.
3. 質問に対して彼は無言のままだった。 He remained silent in response to the question.

Usage Guide

Context: storytelling, conflict, drama

Tone: tense

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 無 (mu, without) + 言 (gon/gen, words/speech). Literally 'without words' — a deliberate or significant lack of speech.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal