a) As described, it isn't a "toxic environment". My previous job the boss would go on verbal and physical tirades almost daily (cursing loud enough to be heard

a) As described, it isn't a "toxic environment". My previous job the boss would go on verbal and physical tirades almost daily (cursing loud enough to be heard through multiple walls, throwing hardware, ripping a door off its hinges, etc). Meanwhile, in one job, my mother had a boss made them work through a breakdown of the A/C. Their office temperatures were exceeding 100 degrees and most of the full-time staff were over 50 years old. This ultimately led to that boss' death at her own desk. Those are "toxic environments". As the OP described their situation, the environment is certainly not supportive, and is uncomfortable and demoralizing, but it doesn't sound like their physical welfare is in jeopardy, so it shouldn't be called 'toxic'. b) As cookiecaper indicated, you should focus on the positives of the job you're interviewing for, not the negatives of the current job. For example, "I'm looking for a more respectful and collegial work environment that supports mutual skill development." The interviewer may take that as "this person is coming from an unsupportive environment" but it could also be taken as "this person is coming from a so-so, hum-drum environment and simply wants a better environment."