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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.

zoro-zoro(ゾロゾロ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

zoro-zoro describes a large number of people or animals moving together in a continuous line or group.

gaku-gaku(ガクガク)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Body Sensation

gaku-gaku describes a repeated, unsteady trembling or shaking motion, often caused by weakness, fear, cold, or exhaustion.

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.

zuru-zuru(ズルズル)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. Slurping sound or action

pyon-pyon(ピョンピョン)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A light, bouncing or hopping movement

doro-doro(ドロドロ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

doro-doro describes a thick, heavy, and viscous state, often referring to substances with low fluidity that move slowly, like mud or magma, as well as emotions or relationships that feel dense or entangled.

shito-shito(シトシト)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Natural Phenomena

shito-shito describes light, quiet, and continuous rainfall.

tsuya-tsuya(ツヤツヤ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

tsuya-tsuya describes a smooth, glossy, and well‑moisturized surface.

gyaa-gyaa(ギャーギャー)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Psychological / Emotional

1. Loud, high-pitched shouting or crying

puni-puni(プニプニ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Body Sensation

1. A soft, squishy, and elastic texture

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