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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.

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

toro describes the moment when a soft or semi-melted substance begins to loosen and move.

su(スッ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

1. Quick, smooth bodily movement

don(ドン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

don describes a deep, resonant impact sound or a strong, attention-grabbing emphasis.

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

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

hiso-hiso(ヒソヒソ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

hiso-hiso describes speaking quietly in a low, secretive voice.

piku(ピク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★☆☆☆☆Body Sensation

piku describes a small, quick, involuntary movement that occurs in response to a stimulus.

kuru-kuru(クルクル)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kuru-kuru describes a continuous spinning or turning motion, typically in a circular pattern.

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