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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Archetype: Cute / Playful

Words with a light, charming, or playful tone, often carrying a sense of friendliness or fun.

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

1. A brief flash or sparkle of light

piyo-piyo(ピヨピヨ)
Giongo(擬音語)★☆☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

piyo-piyo describes the high-pitched chirping sound made by small birds, especially chicks.

sube-sube(スベスベ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

sube-sube describes a smooth, even surface with no roughness or friction.

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

1. A mechanical clacking or turning sound

pyon(ピョン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

pyon describes a light jumping or hopping motion, especially the quick upward movement made by small animals.

mochi-mochi(モチモチ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

mochi-mochi describes a soft, elastic, and pleasantly chewy texture.

waku-waku(ワクワク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

waku-waku describes a bright, eager feeling of excited anticipation.

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

puni(プニ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

puni describes the small, soft deformation that occurs when something is gently pressed or poked.

puyo(プヨ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

puyo describes a soft, slightly squishy texture with mild elasticity.

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