expression, noun-modifying (irregular)
harmless; inoffensive; safe; bland; neutral; noncommittal
Describes remarks, topics, attitudes, or replies that avoid causing offense or controversy; often implies a deliberate choice to stay safe or bland.
When meeting someone for the first time, it's better to choose safe, inoffensive topics.
彼は当たり障りのない返事だけして、すぐに席を立った。
He gave only a noncommittal reply and quickly left his seat.
角が立つ means 'to cause friction' or 'to be harsh', often used negatively; 当たり障りのない is the opposite, describing smooth, non-provocative behavior.
Standard kanji spelling.
Variant using 無い for ない.
From 当たり (contact, touch) + 障り (hindrance, harm) + ない (not), literally 'without touching or causing harm'. The phrase is idiomatic and its exact origin is uncertain.