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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

Feel Japanese sound expressions, not just read them.

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Word type: Gitaigo(擬態語)

Japanese mimetic words that describe states, conditions, or behaviors without referring to real sounds.

bara-bara(バラバラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Scattered or separated into pieces

shuwa-shuwa(シュワシュワ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

shuwa-shuwa describes a light, fizzy sound or sensation produced by bubbles, carbonation, or gentle effervescence.

toro-ri(トロリ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

toro-ri describes a thick, cohesive substance that stretches or drips in a single, heavy stream.

pun-pun(プンプン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

pun-pun describes a state of being clearly angry or irritated, with the emotion visibly expressed through posture, facial expression, or behavior.

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

1. Complete silence or stillness

peta-peta(ペタペタ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

peta-peta describes a light, flat sound or motion created when something soft or slightly sticky repeatedly touches a surface.

goro-n(ゴロン)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

goro-n describes a single, slightly heavy rolling or turning motion.

muka-muka(ムカムカ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

muka-muka describes a feeling of disgust, irritation, or emotional nausea, often directed toward something unpleasant, offensive, or frustrating.

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

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

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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