noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Refers to deep mental or emotional suffering, often used in formal or literary contexts. Can be used as a noun, with する to mean 'to suffer anguish', or as a no-adjective.
彼は苦渋の表情を浮かべた。
He wore a look of anguish.
その決断は苦渋の末に下された。
The decision was made after much anguish.
noun
bitterness and astringency
Rare, literal use referring to a bitter and astringent taste, as in certain teas or foods. Not commonly used in everyday conversation; the metaphorical sense is far more frequent.
このお茶は苦渋が強く、後味に渋みが残る。
This tea has a strong bitterness and astringency, leaving a puckery aftertaste.