無難
Meanings
1
Describes a choice, plan, or action that avoids risk, trouble, or offense. Often used when picking the least problematic option.
I gave a safe opinion at the meeting.
This design should be safe enough.
2
acceptable; passable; adequate
Meets a minimum standard without being excellent; not outstanding but without major flaws. Often used when something is just good enough.
His presentation was passable.
The taste is acceptable, but not particularly delicious.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉は無難だ~ is the safe (risk-free) choice
If you're unsure, choosing a white shirt is the safe choice.
- 無難にこなすto handle/get through something adequately, without major flaws
Although he's new, he's handling the job adequately.
- 〈事〉を無難に済ませるto get something over with safely, without incident
I got through the speech without incident and felt relieved.
- 無難な〈物〉a safe, unremarkable choice of thing
For the souvenir, I chose a safe, unremarkable sweet.