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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Archetype: Shy / Timid

Words that suggest hesitation, modesty, or a delicate and reserved feeling.

uwaa(ウワァ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

1. A drawn‑out exclamation of surprise or emotional reaction

puni-puni(プニプニ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

1. A soft, squishy, and elastic texture

peta-peta(ペタペタ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

peta-peta describes a light, flat sound or motion created when something soft or slightly sticky repeatedly touches a surface.

piyo-piyo(ピヨピヨ)
Giongo(擬音語)★☆☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

piyo-piyo describes the high-pitched chirping sound made by small birds, especially chicks.

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

pyon describes a light jumping or hopping motion, especially the quick upward movement made by small animals.

moya-moya(モヤモヤ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

moya-moya describes a state of emotional or mental haziness, where feelings are unclear, unresolved, or vaguely uncomfortable.

sowa-sowa(ソワソワ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

sowa-sowa describes a state of emotional restlessness or nervous anticipation, where a person cannot stay calm or focused.

kusu-kusu(クスクス)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

kusu-kusu describes a soft, restrained form of laughter, typically a quiet chuckle or giggle made under one’s breath.

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