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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

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kuru-kuru(クルクル)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kuru-kuru describes a continuous spinning or turning motion, typically in a circular pattern.

kara-kara(カラカラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kara-kara describes a light, dry rattling sound produced by small or hollow objects moving or shaking.

kusha(クシャ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kusha describes the sound or state of something being lightly crushed, wrinkled, or crumpled.

kawaii(カワイイ)
Others★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

kawaii describes something that is charming, adorable, or visually appealing in a soft, endearing way.

kyoro-kyoro(キョロキョロ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

kyoro-kyoro describes the restless movement of one’s eyes or head as they look around repeatedly.

kyun(キュン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

kyun describes a strong, squeezing emotional reaction felt in the chest.

kacha-kacha(カチャカチャ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kacha-kacha describes a series of small, light clicking or clattering sounds produced by objects hitting or moving against each other.

kin-kin(キンキン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★★Physical Movement / Sound

1. Sharp, continuous metallic ringing (Giongo)

kan-kan(カンカン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound, Psychological / Emotional

1. Repeated metallic clanging (Giongo)

kin(キン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

kin describes a sharp, high-pitched metallic sound produced when metal objects strike each other.

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