Ever watched someone beat the dust out of a futon, the sound echoing through the street?
Or heard toy pistols firing one after another with a sharp crack?
That’s when the Japanese onomatopoeia “Pan Pan” comes in — a sound full of impact, burst, and rhythm.
Before we dive in, hear what it sounds like!
What is “Pan Pan” (ぱんぱん)?
“Pan Pan” is a Japanese onomatopoeia that describes a sharp, repeated sound, often from striking, clapping, or shooting.
It’s used in many contexts:
- Hitting or smacking something — like dusting a futon, clapping hands, or slapping fabric.
- Gunshots or firecrackers — sharp, rhythmic cracks in succession.
- Fullness or tension — a stomach swollen tight can also be described as panpan!
It carries a lively, sometimes intense feeling — the sound of action or energy.
Pronunciation
pahn-pahn
(Say it with quick bursts — like claps or cracks in the air.)
Category
Sound
What Does “Pan Pan” Look Like?
It looks like hands clapping quickly.
Like dust puffing up as a futon is smacked clean.
Like sparks flying from a toy pistol.
How Do You Say It?
Say it with rhythm and punch:
Pan! Pan!
Like each burst is sharp and clear.
Examples in Daily Life
Example 1: Futon beating
She swung the futon stick,
dust rising with every smack —
pan pan!
Example 2: Toy pistol
The kids ran around the park,
their toy guns firing —
pan pan!
Cultural Note
In English, you might say:
- “Bang bang!” (for a gun)
- “Smack smack!” (for hitting)
- “Clap clap!” (for hands)
But in Japanese, pan pan can flexibly cover them all — capturing the sharp, percussive rhythm in one catchy sound.
Watch & Feel the “Pan Pan” World!
Feel the rhythm of pan pan — sharp, clear, and energetic.
It’s the sound of life in action, whether playful or powerful.
Try Using It!
When you clap your hands…
When you hear fireworks popping…
When you see someone smack the futon clean…
Say it with a burst of energy:
Pan pan〜
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