Translation guide
The English word 'groan' can refer to a low sound of pain, discomfort, or effort, or to a complaint. Japanese has several words and onomatopoeia to express these, depending on the cause and intensity.
Express a low, involuntary sound due to physical pain, illness, or discomfort.
The most common verb for groaning in pain or agony. Often used for someone suffering from injury or illness.
彼は痛みでうめいた。
He groaned in pain.
患者がベッドでうめいている。
The patient is groaning in bed.
Can mean to groan, moan, or growl. Often implies a deeper, more resonant sound, sometimes from frustration or effort as well as pain.
彼は苦しそうにうなった。
He groaned in agony.
Literally 'to let out a groan'. More descriptive and slightly literary.
彼は呻き声をあげて倒れた。
He let out a groan and collapsed.
Express a sound made when exerting physical effort, such as lifting something heavy.
Used for a deep groan or grunt when straining physically.
彼は重い箱を持ち上げながらうなった。
He groaned as he lifted the heavy box.
Can also be used for effort, but more commonly associated with pain.
Express a low sound or remark showing annoyance, dissatisfaction, or boredom.
Means 'to complain'. Not an onomatopoeic groan, but the functional equivalent for expressing discontent.
彼はいつも仕事について不平を言っている。
He's always groaning about his job.
To grumble or complain in a low voice, often to oneself. Casual.
彼は天気のことをぼやいていた。
He was groaning about the weather.
Literally 'to let out a sigh'. Often used when someone groans in exasperation or resignation.
彼はその知らせを聞いてため息をついた。
He groaned when he heard the news.
An interjection expressing disappointment or complaint, similar to a groan. Very casual.
えーっ、また残業なの？
Ugh, overtime again? (groan)
Describe something that is straining under a heavy load, such as a system or structure.
Literally 'to scream', but used metaphorically for systems or objects under extreme stress, equivalent to 'groaning under the strain'.
サーバーがアクセス過多で悲鳴をあげている。
The server is groaning under the heavy traffic.
To creak or groan, used for physical objects like floors or doors under pressure.
He groaned as he mustered his last strength.
The old floor groaned under the weight.