Translation guide
Describes a loud, metallic, resonant sound produced when heavy metal objects strike each other. In Japanese, this is typically expressed using onomatopoeia or mimetic adverbs.
To describe a single, sharp, resonant metallic sound, like chains, heavy tools, or machinery colliding.
To describe a series of clanking sounds, like chains dragging or machinery operating.
Reduplicated form for repeated clanking or rattling of metal objects. Very common for keys, chains, or loose parts.
To describe a low-pitched, heavy metallic sound, like large iron gates or thick chains.
Repetitive heavy clanking, often with a sense of weight and dullness. Used for large machinery or heavy impacts.
Japanese onomatopoeia like ガチャン are often used with the particle と (to) to indicate the manner of the sound, and can be followed by verbs like 音を立てる (oto o tateru, 'to make a sound') or 鳴る (naru, 'to ring/sound'). They can also function adverbially with する (suru).
The chain made a clanking sound.
A sharper, harder metallic impact sound, often implying a forceful collision. Can also be used for head-butting or clashing.
The iron bars clanked together.
A heavy, duller clank, often with a sense of weight. Less common for pure metallic sounds, but used for impacts.
The hammer struck the metal with a clank.
He jangled the keys with a clanking sound.
Repetitive hard clanking, often implying stiffness or a mechanical, rhythmic noise. Can also mean 'frozen stiff' in other contexts.
The machine moved with a clanking sound.
In the factory, large machines were clanking loudly.