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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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potsu-potsu(ポツポツ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★☆☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

1. Light, sparse raindrops

zaa-zaa(ザーザー)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Natural Phenomena

1. Heavy, continuous rainfall

shito-shito(シトシト)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

shito-shito describes light, quiet, and continuous rainfall.

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.

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.

kusu-kusu(クスクス)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

kusu-kusu describes a soft, restrained form of laughter, typically a quiet chuckle or giggle made under one’s breath.

gera-gera(ゲラゲラ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

gera-gera describes loud, unrestrained laughter marked by a sharp, open sound.

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.

niko-niko(ニコニコ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

niko-niko describes a state of smiling cheerfully and continuously.

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

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

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