adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Mimetic sound of something creaking or squeaking under pressure, such as a tight joint or overloaded object.
重い荷物を載せたら、棚がぎゅうぎゅうと音を立てた。
When I put a heavy load on it, the shelf made a creaking sound.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, na-adjective
packed tightly; crammed; squeezed in
Describes a space or container filled to capacity, often uncomfortably so. Can be used adverbially or as a な-adjective.
通勤ラッシュの電車はいつもぎゅうぎゅうだ。
The commuter train during rush hour is always packed tight.
スーツケースに服をぎゅうぎゅうに詰め込んだ。
I crammed my clothes tightly into the suitcase.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Used for actions done with strong, sustained pressure: pressing, tying, twisting, or gripping something firmly.
蓋が開かないように、ぎゅうぎゅうと押し付けた。
I pressed down hard so the lid wouldn't come off.
彼は私の手をぎゅうぎゅう握って離さなかった。
He squeezed my hand tightly and wouldn't let go.
adverb, na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
grilling; tormenting; going hard on
Figurative use: subjecting someone to intense questioning, criticism, or pressure, as if squeezing them. Often used with 責める or 質問攻め.
上司にミスの理由をぎゅうぎゅう問い詰められた。
My boss grilled me relentlessly about the reason for the mistake.