Translation guide
The English word "squeal" can refer to a high-pitched cry from a person or animal, or informally to informing on someone. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these different uses.
To express a loud, sharp, high-pitched sound made by a person or animal, often from excitement, pain, or fear.
A general word for a scream or shriek, often used for high-pitched cries of fear or pain. Works for both people and animals.
To inform on someone to authorities or a person in power, often betraying trust.
To inform on someone, often to the police or authorities. Carries a nuance of betrayal.
悲鳴 usually implies fear, pain, or distress. For happy squeals, use 叫び声 or 甲高い声 with context words like 喜び (joy) or 興奮 (excitement).
彼女は恐怖の悲鳴を上げた。
She let out a squeal of terror.
The piglet squealed.
A shout or yell; can be high-pitched. Often used for sudden, loud cries.
The children squealed with excitement.
Literally 'high-pitched voice'. Describes the quality of the sound rather than the act. Use with verbs like 出す or 上げる.
She laughed with a squeal.
Onomatopoeia for a high-pitched shriek, often used by girls or women when scared or excited. Casual.
Eek! There's a mouse!
Onomatopoeia for a high-pitched squeaking or squealing sound, like that of a small animal or a hinge. Often used for mice, bats, or excited children.
The puppy is squealing.
He squealed on his accomplices to the police.
Slang for tattling or snitching. Very casual, often used among children or in informal contexts.
That guy squealed to the teacher.
To tattle or tell on someone, often with a childish or petty nuance. Less serious than 密告.
My little sister squealed to Mom.
To tip off or inform the police, often anonymously. Used in crime contexts.
An anonymous tipster squealed to the police.