Translation guide
Describes high-pitched, short sounds made by objects, animals, or people. Japanese uses onomatopoeia and specific verbs depending on the source and quality of the sound.
A high-pitched, creaking sound from friction, like a rusty hinge or new shoes.
The door squeaks.
The floor squeaked.
Onomatopoeic phrase for a light, repetitive squeaking, like new sneakers on a floor.
My new shoes squeak.
Kanji form of きしむ, often used in literary or formal writing.
The old stairs squeak.
The high-pitched vocalization of rodents or similar small creatures.
A person's voice becoming high and thin, often due to emotion or strain.
Describes a voice that cracks or becomes high-pitched unintentionally, like when nervous.
I was so nervous my voice squeaked.
A piercing, high-pitched voice, often unpleasant or grating.
Her squeaky voice grates on my ears.
Literally 'yellow voice'; refers to high-pitched screaming, especially of fans or children.
Loud, high-pitched friction sound from vehicles.
きしむ is for low, creaking friction (doors, floors). きゅっきゅっ is for light, repetitive squeaks (shoes, toys). キーキー is for high, sharp sounds (animals, brakes, voices).
鳴く (なく) means 'to cry/utter' and is used for animals. For inanimate objects like doors, use 音がする or specific verbs like きしむ.
Squealing cheers erupt for the idol.
The brakes were squeaking, so I took the car in for repair.