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Notes on Japanese onomatopoeia, language learning, and the design of Mimi & Otto. New articles every Tuesday.
Japanese Mimetic Words Explained: More Than Just Sound Effects
Learn what Japanese mimetic words are, how they differ from English onomatopoeia, and how words like doki doki, fuwa fuwa, shiin, and zawa zawa express feelings, textures, silence, and atmosphere.
Japanese Onomatopoeia Quiz: Can You Guess the Right Word?
Take a beginner-friendly Japanese onomatopoeia quiz and learn how native speakers connect words like doki doki, waku waku, zaa zaa, fuwa fuwa, and shiin to real scenes.
Giongo vs Gitaigo: What’s the Difference?
Learn the difference between giongo and gitaigo, two major types of Japanese onomatopoeia, with examples, scenes, and beginner-friendly explanations for English speakers.
50 Common Japanese Onomatopoeia Words You’ll Actually Use
Learn 50 common Japanese onomatopoeia words with meanings, scenes, and beginner-friendly examples for English speakers.
Japanese Onomatopoeia: A Beginner’s Guide for English Speakers
Learn what Japanese onomatopoeia means, why it is difficult for English speakers, and how to understand words like doki doki, waku waku, kira kira, and zaa zaa by scene.