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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Archetype: Shy / Timid

Words that suggest hesitation, modesty, or a delicate and reserved feeling.

goso-goso(ゴソゴソ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

goso-goso describes small, quiet, and continuous rustling movements or sounds, often made when someone is searching through objects, shifting items, or moving secretly in a confined space.

guzu-guzu(グズグズ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

1. Slow, hesitant behavior

doki-doki(ドキドキ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

doki-doki describes the rapid beating of the heart caused by excitement, nervousness, or anticipation.

shobo-n(ショボーン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

shobo-n describes a small, quiet feeling of disappointment or mild discouragement.

fuwa-fuwa(フワフワ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Soft, light, and fluffy in texture

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

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

peko-peko(ペコペコ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Being extremely hungry

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

1. Trembling or twitching slightly due to fear or tension

shiin(シーン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Complete silence or stillness

zuki-zuki(ズキズキ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

1. Throbbing or pulsating pain

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