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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.

niko-niko(ニコニコ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

niko-niko describes a state of smiling cheerfully and continuously.

hera-hera(ヘラヘラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Psychological / Emotional

hera-hera describes a person acting in a frivolous, unserious, or overly casual manner, often smiling or laughing without sincerity.

boro-boro(ボロボロ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

boro-boro describes a state of being worn-out, tattered, or falling apart.

pera(ペラ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★☆☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

pera describes something thin, light, and flimsy moving or bending easily, often with a soft flipping or fluttering motion.

hoka-hoka(ホカホカ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

hoka-hoka describes warm, freshly heated conditions, typically referring to food, air, or objects that retain gentle warmth.

kara-kara(カラカラ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★☆☆☆Physical Movement / Sound

kara-kara describes a light, dry rattling sound produced by small or hollow objects moving or shaking.

zawa-zawa(ザワザワ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Natural Phenomena

1. Low, continuous murmuring or ambient noise

zaku-zaku(ザクザク)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Physical Movement / Sound

1. A crunchy, cutting, or digging sound

biri-biri(ビリビリ)
Giongo(擬音語), Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★★☆Body Sensation

1. Continuous electric stimulation or tingling

niya-niya(ニヤニヤ)
Gitaigo(擬態語)★★★☆☆Psychological / Emotional

niya-niya describes a sly, smug, or suggestive grin that continues over time.

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