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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Archetype: Energetic

Words that convey liveliness, movement, or a strong sense of vitality.

pika-pika(ピカピカ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Shining or sparkling brightly

goro-n(ゴロン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

goro-n describes a single, slightly heavy rolling or turning motion.

kiraan(キラーン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

1. A sharp, sparkling flash of light

gacha-gacha(ガチャガチャ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

gacha-gacha describes a clattering, rattling sound or a state of noisy, chaotic movement.

pera-pera(ペラペラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Speaking fluently or smoothly

gera-gera(ゲラゲラ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

gera-gera describes loud, unrestrained laughter marked by a sharp, open sound.

gabu-gabu(ガブガブ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Drinking in large, vigorous gulps

zaa-zaa(ザーザー)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Natural Phenomena

1. Heavy, continuous rainfall

dokan(ドカン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★★Physical Movement / Sound

1. A loud explosive sound

pun-pun(プンプン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

pun-pun describes a state of being clearly angry or irritated, with the emotion visibly expressed through posture, facial expression, or behavior.

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