Akanbe or akkanbee [あかんべえ] is a Japanese facial gesture that indicates crazy sarcasm, also known in France as ceil mon and in Korea as melong [메롱].
This gesture is performed by pulling down the lower eyelid, exposing the red part to someone. It is considered an immature provocation gesture and is often done with the tongue sticking out.
In France, this gesture is an expression of disdain, disbelief, or something that does not match. It is common to use expressions related to the eye to express disbelief or when seeing something unnecessary.
Exposing the lower and inner eyelid with a finger can also be an expression of contempt and rejection.
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Table of Contents
Origin of Akanbe
The term first appeared in a story from 1909 written by Katai Tayama titled Inaka Kyoshi (rural teacher). The gesture is used by male students in the story. The author gives the etymology of the word 赤い目 which means red eyes.
Currently, this expression is used in various animes and mangas, mainly by female tsundere characters.
Although the word Akanbe originally referred to sticking the inner part of the eye out, it is now even used when someone just sticks their tongue out.
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References and Mentions
In the anime Pretty Cure! Akanbe are monsters with an appearance similar to the gesture, they have an eye with a red cut, a scary smile with the tongue sticking out.
The number of famous characters who have made this gesture is quite large. It is easy to find images of Suzumiya Haruhi, Naruto, Bleach, Hatsune Miku, and thousands of other famous animes practicing this gesture.
Did you know this gesture? Have you done it with someone? Do you know any anime where you have witnessed akanbe? We appreciate any comments and shares.
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