You can helpexpand this article with text translated fromthe corresponding article in Japanese.Click [show] for important translation instructions. Machine translation, likeDeepL orGoogle Translate, is a useful starting point for translations, but translators must revise errors as necessary and confirm that the translation is accurate, rather than simply copy-pasting machine-translated text into the English Wikipedia. Do not translate text that appears unreliable or low-quality. If possible, verify the text with references provided in the foreign-language article. Youmust providecopyright attribution in theedit summary accompanying your translation by providing aninterlanguage link to the source of your translation. A model attribution edit summary isContent in this edit is translated from the existing Japanese Wikipedia article at [[:ja:あかんべえ]]; see its history for attribution. You may also add the template{{Translated|ja|あかんべえ}} to thetalk page. For more guidance, seeWikipedia:Translation.

Akanbe (Japanese:あかんべえ,あっかんべえ, andあかんべえよ) is aJapanesefacial expression andgesture associated withsarcasm, teasing, or mildtaunting. The gesture consists of pulling down the lower eyelid to expose the reddish underside of the eye toward another person, often accompanied by sticking out the tongue. It is most commonly associated with children, though it may also appear in informal adult contexts.^[1]

In everyday use, akanbe functions as a nonverbal expression of refusal, mockery, or playful defiance. It is frequently observed in school and playground settings and may be used during informal interactions to signal disagreement without verbal confrontation. Within the framework ofJapanese etiquette and broader norms of indirect communication, such gestures can convey social meaning while maintaining a relatively low level of conflict.

The term "akanbe" is also used as aninterjection expressing displeasure or disapproval. In some contexts it may function as a noun referring to a person regarded as intrusive or meddlesome. As a lexical item, it is sometimes discussed alongsideJapanese sound symbolism and expressive vocabulary.

Akanbe appears inJapanese popular culture, includinganime,manga, andtelevision. In visual media, the gesture is used as a shorthand to indicate teasing, annoyance, embarrassment, or disbelief. Characters may be depicted pulling down the eyelid with a finger, sometimes combined with exaggerated facial features typical of stylized animation.^[2] The gesture’s repeated depiction has contributed to its recognition among audiences outside Japan.

Akanbe is sometimes compared with theeyelid pull gesture observed in other cultures. Although similar in physical form, interpretations vary, and in Japan the gesture is generally understood as childish teasing rather than a serious insult. It may also be considered alongside other forms ofnonverbal communication.

Eyelid pull

Body language

Facial expression

Nonverbal communication

Japanese etiquette

Culture of Japan

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