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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.

zaku-zaku(ザクザク)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A crunchy, cutting, or digging sound

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

pika-n describes a sudden flash of light or a sharp moment of realization.

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

1. A mechanical clacking or turning sound

bari-bari(バリバリ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

bari-bari describes a hard, tearing or ripping sound, such as paper or material being forcefully torn.

pyon-pyon(ピョンピョン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A light, bouncing or hopping movement

shuwa-shuwa(シュワシュワ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

shuwa-shuwa describes a light, fizzy sound or sensation produced by bubbles, carbonation, or gentle effervescence.

piko-piko(ピコピコ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

piko-piko describes a small, light, repetitive movement or sound, often associated with simple electronic beeps, toy-like motions, or rhythmic mechanical reactions.

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