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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

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Word type: Giongo(擬音語)

Japanese onomatopoeic words that represent actual sounds such as impacts, movements, or environmental noises.

kin-kin(キンキン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★★Physical Movement / Sound

1. Sharp, continuous metallic ringing (Giongo)

gotsu-n(ゴツン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

gotsu-n describes a single, heavy impact sound produced when a hard object strikes another surface with noticeable force.

bishi-bashi(ビシバシ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

bishi-bashi describes repeated, forceful actions performed with strong intensity.

pika-pika(ピカピカ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Shining or sparkling brightly

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

1. A brief flash or sparkle of light

poko-n(ポコン)
Giongo(擬音語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

poko-n describes a light popping or plopping sound made by a small, firm object with gentle force.

zun-zun(ズンズン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

zun-zun describes continuous, heavy, and forceful movement or impacts, often produced by someone or something advancing with weight and momentum.

jyuuu(ジュー / ジューッ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

jyuuu describes the sizzling sound produced when food is heated on a pan, grill, or hot surface.

basa(バサ)
Giongo(擬音語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

basa describes a dry, broad sound produced when a *bundle* or *mass* of lightweight material moves or spreads out in a single motion.

gara-gara(ガラガラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

gara-gara describes a rough, rattling, or clattering sound produced by objects moving, shaking, or sliding.

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