頬ほおをつねる

expression, godan verb (-ru)

pinch someone's cheek

Literal physical action of pinching another person's cheek, often playfully or affectionately.

• 祖そ母ぼは私わたしの頬ほおをつねって「大おおきくなったね」と言いった。

  My grandmother pinched my cheek and said, 'You've grown.'

expression, godan verb (-ru)

pinch one's own cheek (to check if dreaming)

Idiomatic use: pinching one's own cheek to confirm reality, especially after surprising good news or a fortunate event.

• 合ごう格かく通つう知ちを見みて、思おもわず頬ほおをつねった。

  When I saw the acceptance letter, I couldn't help but pinch my cheek.