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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Archetype: Chaotic / Unstable

Words that express restlessness, instability, or a sense of disorder and fluctuation.

ira-ira(イライラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

ira-ira describes a state of irritation, agitation, or growing frustration.

niya-niya(ニヤニヤ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

niya-niya describes a sly, smug, or suggestive grin that continues over time.

gucha-gucha(グチャグチャ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Messy, crushed, or squashed state

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.

zuru-zuru(ズルズル)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Slurping sound or action

gaku-gaku(ガクガク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Body Sensation

gaku-gaku describes a repeated, unsteady trembling or shaking motion, often caused by weakness, fear, cold, or exhaustion.

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

gasa-gasa(ガサガサ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Body Sensation

1. Dry, rough surface condition

biku-biku(ビクビク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

1. Trembling or twitching slightly due to fear or tension

hera-hera(ヘラヘラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

hera-hera describes a person acting in a frivolous, unserious, or overly casual manner, often smiling or laughing without sincerity.

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