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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

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pera(ペラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★☆☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

pera describes something thin, light, and flimsy moving or bending easily, often with a soft flipping or fluttering motion.

goshi-goshi(ゴシゴシ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

goshi-goshi describes a strong, repetitive scrubbing or rubbing sound produced when two surfaces are pressed together and moved back and forth with force.

kari-kari(カリカリ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kari-kari describes a dry, crisp, and crunchy sound produced when something firm is bitten, broken, rubbed, or scratched.

ton-ton(トントン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Light tapping or knocking sound

koto-koto(コトコト)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Gentle simmering sound

moku-moku(モクモク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Natural Phenomena

moku-moku describes a thick, continuous mass of smoke, steam, or clouds rising or spreading.

bon(ボン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

bon describes a short, rounded explosive sound produced by a burst of energy, impact, or ignition.

suya-suya(スヤスヤ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★☆☆☆☆Body Sensation

suya-suya describes quiet, peaceful, and steady breathing during sleep.

yura-yura(ユラユラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

yura-yura describes a gentle, slow, and continuous swaying motion.

shubo(シュボッ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

shubo describes the quick, intentional ignition of a small flame, such as lighting a lighter, a gas stove, or a controlled spark.

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