Translation guide
Describes the act of breathing in suddenly and sharply, often due to surprise, shock, pain, or difficulty breathing. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the cause and intensity.
A sudden sharp intake of breath when startled or amazed.
Literally 'to swallow one's breath'. The most common way to describe gasping in surprise, shock, or awe. Often used figuratively for breathtaking beauty.
I gasped at its beauty.
Describes a sudden, sharp intake of breath, often with a start. 'はっと' is an onomatopoeia for being startled.
An interjection representing a short gasp of surprise or realization. Often used in manga or casual speech.
Breathing with difficulty, often with open mouth, due to exhaustion, illness, or lack of oxygen.
A sharp intake of breath due to physical pain or a sudden fright.
A sudden intake of breath due to overwhelming positive or negative emotion.
English 'gasping' covers many situations, but Japanese uses different verbs and phrases. Do not try to translate 'gasp' as a single word. Use the context-appropriate expression.
He gasped. (unnatural)
息をのむ is for a sudden, brief gasp (surprise, beauty). あえぐ is for continuous, labored gasping (suffering, illness, extreme exertion).
She gasped when she saw the price.
She gasped at the sudden news.
He gasped and stopped in his tracks.
Ah! (gasp) I forgot!
Literally 'breath runs out'. Describes being out of breath, panting, or gasping after exertion.
I was gasping for breath after running.
To be out of breath; to gasp for air. Often used in the progressive form 息を切らしている.
He came up the stairs gasping for breath.
To gasp, pant, or struggle for breath. Can also imply suffering or being in distress.
He gasped for help.
Onomatopoeic expression for heavy breathing or panting, often used in casual or comedic contexts.
The dog is panting (gasping) from the heat.
To hold one's breath or gasp sharply due to pain or tension. Often used when bracing for impact.
He gasped in pain.
An interjection for a choked gasp, often from pain or being hit. Common in manga.
Ugh! (gasping after being punched in the stomach)
Also used for emotional gasps, not just surprise. Context determines the emotion.
She gasped at the moment of their reunion.
Literally 'chest tightens'. Describes being choked up with emotion, often leading to a gasp or sob.
I was so moved I gasped and couldn't speak.
絶景に息をのむ。
Gasp at the magnificent view.
The patient gasps for breath.
He came up gasping for air.