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.
To physically jump or flinch in response to a sudden stimulus.
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.
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.
I was startled by the loud noise.
彼女が突然現れて驚いた。
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.
急に肩を叩かれてびっくりした。
I was startled when someone suddenly tapped my shoulder.
値段を見てびっくりした。
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.
物音にはっとして目が覚めた。
I was startled awake by a noise.
危ないところではっとした。
I was startled at the close call.
A stronger, more negative startle, often from something shocking or frightening. Implies a momentary freeze or recoil.
突然の悲鳴にぎょっとした。
I was startled by the sudden scream.
Describes a sudden startle that makes your heart pound, often from surprise or a guilty conscience.
名前を呼ばれてどきっとした。
I was startled when my name was called.
Literally 'jump up', used when someone is so startled they physically jump.
急に後ろから声をかけられて飛び上がった。
I jumped when someone suddenly spoke from behind me.
Onomatopoeic for a sudden flinch or twitch from being startled.
大きな雷の音にびくっとした。
I flinched at the loud thunder.