expression, i-adjective
unable to read the room; unable to pick up on the mood; socially clueless
Describes someone who fails to sense the atmosphere or unspoken social cues in a situation. Often used as a mild criticism or self-deprecating remark. Derived from the phrase 空気を読む (to read the room).
See also: 空気を読む
彼は空気読めない発言をして、場をしらけさせた。
He made a socially clueless remark and killed the mood.
あの人は空気読めないから、デリケートな話は避けたほうがいい。
That person can't read the room, so it's better to avoid sensitive topics.