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onowords – Japanese Sound Expressions

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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.

puru-puru(プルプル)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

puru-puru describes a light, continuous trembling or quivering motion.

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

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

saa(サー)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

1. Continuous natural sound

fu(フー)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Natural Phenomena

1. the hissing sound made by a cat

bura-bura(ブラブラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

bura-bura describes a loose, dangling, or swinging motion, often repeated and unhurried.

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

1. Complete silence or stillness

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