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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.

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.

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

1. A sharp, sparkling flash of light

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

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

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

gyaa-gyaa(ギャーギャー)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

1. Loud, high-pitched shouting or crying

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.

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.

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

1. Drinking in large, vigorous gulps

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.

pusu-pusu(プスプス)
Giongo(擬音語)★☆☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

pusu-pusu describes a faint, weak sound of air, heat, or energy escaping, often associated with smoldering, leaking, or something gradually losing strength.

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