Subtle; having a delicate or fine nuance that is hard to state precisely.
このワインは香りが微妙で、違いがわかりにくい。
This wine has a subtle aroma and its differences are hard to tell.
色の差が微妙だから、部屋のライトで印象が変わる。
The color difference is subtle, so the impression changes with the room lighting.
彼の表情は微妙で、本心が読み取れなかった。
His expression was subtle, so I couldn't read his true feelings.
Difficult, complex, or delicate (e.g., a situation or decision) that requires careful handling.
その問題は微妙で、すぐに結論を出せない。
That issue is delicate; you can't draw a conclusion right away.
上司との関係が微妙だから、あまり口出ししない方がいい。
Your relationship with the boss is tricky, so it's better not to meddle.
条件交渉は微妙なバランスが必要だ。
Negotiating terms requires a delicate balance.
Doubtful or questionable; something that seems unreliable or iffy.
彼の説明は微妙で、信じられない点があった。
His explanation was questionable; there were parts I couldn't believe.
そのデータの出所が微妙だから、正式な資料には使えない。
The source of that data is dubious, so it can't be used as an official reference.
このアプリの安全性は微妙だと思う。
I think the safety of this app is iffy.
Colloquial: not great; iffy; used casually (often written as ビミョー).
今日のランチ、微妙だった。
Today's lunch was not great.
その映画、ビミョーって評判だよ。
That movie has 'iffy' reviews.
新しいデザイン、個人的にはびみょうかな。
Personally, the new design is kind of iffy.