Translation guide
To feel hurt, angry, or upset because of something someone said or did. In Japanese, this is often expressed with verbs like 怒る (okoru), 腹が立つ (hara ga tatsu), or 気を悪くする (ki o waruku suru), depending on the nuance.
Expressing that someone felt hurt or angry due to a remark or action.
A common, polite way to say 'take offense' or 'feel hurt'. Literally 'make one's feelings bad'. Suitable for most situations.
He took offense at that joke.
Literally 'stomach stands up', meaning to get angry or offended. More visceral and direct than 気を悪くする. Common in everyday speech.
General verb for 'get angry'. Can imply taking offense, but broader. Often used when the reaction is visible.
To be offended or annoyed, often with a sullen or pouty reaction. Describes a momentary feeling.
He took offense when criticized.
Formal expression meaning 'to hurt someone's feelings' or 'offend'. Often used in written or formal contexts.
Reacting negatively to something that was said.
Describing a person who tends to take offense quickly.
Do not translate 'take offense' literally as 攻撃を取る or similar. It is an idiomatic expression. Use the phrases above.
気を悪くする is more about feeling hurt or upset, while 腹が立つ is closer to anger. 気を悪くする is safer in polite contexts.
I took offense but didn't get angry.
Please don't take offense.
彼の態度には本当に腹が立った。
I really took offense at his attitude.
彼女はその言葉に怒った。
She took offense at those words.
The remark offended many people.
Sensitive, high-strung; easily upset or offended. Often used as a noun or na-adjective.
She's sensitive and takes offense at little things.