off-putting

This term describes a visceral reaction of repulsion or discomfort. It is frequently used to describe sensory experiences, such as a pungent odor or a harsh visual, but it equally applies to social behaviors and personality traits that make a person seem unapproachable or unpleasant.

While similar to "repulsive" or "distasteful," it carries a softer, more subtle connotation of discouragement. It suggests that something is not necessarily abhorrent, but rather enough to make one want to withdraw or avoid the situation entirely.