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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.

bara-bara(バラバラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Scattered or separated into pieces

dokan(ドカン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★★Physical Movement / Sound

1. A loud explosive sound

zubo(ズボ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Sound of something sinking deeply into soft material

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

1. A loud, high‑pitched scream

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

1. A heavy rolling or rumbling sound

gacha(ガチャ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A mechanical clacking or turning sound

beta-beta(ベタベタ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

beta-beta describes a heavy, sticky state caused by moisture, sweat, or a substance that clings strongly to a surface.

bata-bata(バタバタ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

1. Loud, repeated physical sounds

biri-biri(ビリビリ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

1. Continuous electric stimulation or tingling

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.

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