noun
sadism; sadistic tendency
A psychological term for deriving pleasure from inflicting pain or humiliation. Often used in discussions of personality or relationships. Cross-referenced with サディズム.
See also: サディズム
彼の言動には加虐心が感じられる。
His words and actions reveal a sadistic tendency.
加虐心と被虐心は表裏一体だと言われる。
Sadism and masochism are said to be two sides of the same coin.
被虐心 means masochism, the counterpart to 加虐心.
Sino-Japanese compound: 加 (add, inflict) + 虐 (oppress, torment) + 心 (heart, mind). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is constructed to express a sadistic psychological disposition.