Why are there so many ‘sound words’ in Japanese?

Japanese onomatopoeia that makes emotions and scenery ‘audible’

‘Waku waku’ (excited), ‘dokidoki’ (thrilling), “moyamoya” (confused), ‘zaa zaa’ (raining heavily)…

Japanese has many mysterious words that express emotions, states, and even things that don’t make sounds using ‘sounds.’

These are called ‘onomatopoeia’ and are one of the things that surprise Japanese language learners.

English also has onomatopoeia such as ‘bang’ and ‘buzz,’ but Japanese has an overwhelmingly larger number and variety. 

Why does Japanese place such importance on ‘sound words’?

The difference between onomatopoeia and mimetic words 

First, Japanese onomatopoeia can be broadly divided into two types: 

Type Meaning Example 

Onomatopoeia Words that imitate actual sounds ‘zaa zaa,’ ‘dondon,’ ‘chun chun’

Mimetic words Words that express sensations without sound ‘wakuwaku,’ ‘shittori,’ “moyamoya”

What makes Japanese particularly unique is the richness of its ‘mimetic words.’ 

Emotions, atmospheres, movements, textures, etc. — things without sound are expressed as if they had sound.

Why are there so many?

1. A culture that values detailed expression of sensations

In Japan, there is a tendency to value vague and delicate sensations. 

Rather than simply saying ‘it’s raining,’ expressions like ‘shishito,’ ‘potopoto,’ and ‘zaazaa’ concretely describe sensory perceptions, expanding the listener’s imagination.

2. Influence of manga and anime culture

In Japanese manga and anime, onomatopoeia is visually depicted, further embedding its use in daily life.

Expressions such as ‘doki doki’ and ‘gogogogo…’ have become familiar even to foreigners.

3. Easy to use in spoken language

In Japanese, onomatopoeia is familiar as a casual expression and often appears in conversation.

Examples:

• ‘The sky is gloomy today.’

• ‘This cake is moist and delicious!’

Differences from other languages

In English, expressions such as ‘feel excited’ or ‘it’s raining heavily’ are used to describe feelings.

On the other hand, Japanese is characterised by its ability to express feelings in a single word.

State Japanese English

Tension Doki doki I’m nervous / My heart is pounding

Joy Uki uki I’m happy / excited

Tiredness Heto heto I’m exhausted

Cloudy Don’yori It’s gloomy

Examples of unique onomatopoeia

• ピカピカPikaPika: Shining (e.g., new shoes are shiny)

• さらさらSaraSara: Flowing lightly (e.g., hair is flowing lightly)

• ぐっすりGussuri: Sleeping deeply (e.g., slept soundly)

• ぎゅうぎゅうGyuuGyuu: Crowded (e.g., the train is crowded)

These words are used not just as expressions, but as tools to share emotions and atmosphere.

Magical words that give ‘sound’ to things without sound

Japanese onomatopoeia is not only interesting, but also reflects the sensibilities, aesthetic sense, and sense of distance from others of the Japanese people.

These words are like ‘soundless sounds’ that can be heard.

This is proof that Japanese has a culture of ‘verbalising sensations’ that is rare in the world.

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