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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Word type: Giongo(擬音語)

Japanese onomatopoeic words that represent actual sounds such as impacts, movements, or environmental noises.

doki-doki(ドキドキ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

doki-doki describes the rapid beating of the heart caused by excitement, nervousness, or anticipation.

gyaa(ギャー)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★★Psychological / Emotional

1. A loud, high‑pitched scream

pachi(パチ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

pachi describes a short, bright snapping or popping sound produced when something lightly bursts, snaps, or makes a crisp spark-like noise.

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.

goro-goro(ゴロゴロ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Heavy rolling or rumbling movement

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

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

poko-poko(ポコポコ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

poko-poko describes a series of small, hollow bubbling or popping sounds produced when air or gas rises repeatedly through liquid, or when a light, hollow object is tapped in a gentle, rhythmic way.

zun(ズン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

zun describes a deep, heavy, and impactful sound or sensation, often associated with something large or weighty moving, landing, or resonating.

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

1. Shining or sparkling brightly

kira(キラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A brief flash or sparkle of light

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