嫌隙 (xián xì) is a formal literary noun meaning 'grudge' or 'rift' — a deep, lingering feeling of resentment or hostility between people, often resulting from past conflict or misunderstanding. The first character 嫌 (xián) means 'distrust', 'dislike', or 'suspicion'; the second character 隙 (xì) literally means 'crack', 'gap', or 'fissure'. Together, they evoke the image of an emotional crack that widens into a lasting rift — not just momentary anger, but a hardened, unspoken distance.

This word is commonly used in written Chinese, historical narratives, and serious discussions about interpersonal or political tensions. It implies something unresolved and potentially damaging over time, and rarely appears in casual speech. You’ll often see it paired with verbs like 产生 (to arise), 加深 (to deepen), or 化解 (to resolve). It carries a slightly classical tone and suggests gravity and duration — more serious than simple 不高兴 (being unhappy) or 生气 (being angry).