Translation guide
Expresses a sudden, involuntary reaction to something unexpected, often involving a physical jump or a moment of fear. Japanese uses several verbs and onomatopoeic words to capture different nuances of being startled.
To be suddenly surprised or frightened by something unexpected, often with a physical reaction like jumping.
General verb for being surprised or startled. Can be used for both positive and negative surprises.
I was startled by the loud noise.
I was startled when she suddenly appeared.
Very common, slightly casual expression for being startled or surprised. Often implies a stronger, more sudden reaction than 驚く.
I was startled when someone suddenly tapped my shoulder.
I was startled when I saw the price.
Describes a sudden, sharp startle, often with a gasp or a moment of realization. Can be used for sudden awareness or fear.
I was startled awake by a noise.
I was startled at the close call.
A stronger, more negative startle, often from something shocking or frightening. Implies a momentary freeze or recoil.
I was startled by the sudden scream.
Describes a sudden startle that makes your heart pound, often from surprise or a guilty conscience.
I was startled when my name was called.
To physically jump or flinch in response to a sudden stimulus.
Literally 'jump up', used when someone is so startled they physically jump.
I jumped when someone suddenly spoke from behind me.
Onomatopoeic for a sudden flinch or twitch from being startled.
I flinched at the loud thunder.
驚く is more formal and can be used in writing or polite speech. びっくりする is more colloquial and commonly used in everyday conversation. Both are very frequent, but びっくりする often feels more vivid and immediate.
I was surprised/startled. (polite)
I was startled! (casual)
Japanese has many onomatopoeic expressions for being startled (びっくり, はっと, ぎょっと, どきっと, びくっと). They often pair with する to form verbs. Choosing the right one depends on the intensity and nature of the startle.