also: ばつのわるい
i-adjective
awkward; uncomfortable; embarrassing
Describes a situation or feeling of social discomfort, often from a minor mistake or an awkward silence. Related to the expression バツが悪い.
See also: バツが悪い
彼はバツの悪い顔をして、すぐに部屋を出て行った。
He made an awkward face and quickly left the room.
The silence continued, and the atmosphere became uncomfortable.
From バツ (a penalty or bad mark) + の + 悪い (bad). The exact origin of バツ is uncertain, but it may be related to the '×' mark used to indicate something incorrect or undesirable.