Japanese Sound Words Loved in Singapore: From “Doki Doki” to “Shiin…”

Japanese sound words have quietly carved out a place in Singapore’s multilingual pop culture scene —

especially through anime, memes, and fandom creativity.

Thanks to widespread access to Japanese content and a language environment that appreciates expressive sound,

Japanese onomatopoeia like doki doki and shiin… are gaining attention in this vibrant island nation.

How Singaporean Fans First Encounter Japanese Onomatopoeia

Language and culture videos

Singaporean content creators often explore linguistic playfulness.

Japanese sound words are sometimes presented alongside Chinese and Malay equivalents in videos about expression and emotion.

Anime (e.g., Naruto, Your Name, Demon Slayer)

Japanese sound effects are familiar to many Singaporean anime fans, who often consume content with subtitles.

Emotional or comedic sound words stand out during viewing.

Manga (usually in Japanese with translations)

Manga found in Kinokuniya or other popular bookstores often keeps Japanese sound effects.

Fans become familiar with them through repetition and context.

Cosplay and creative scenes

Events like Anime Festival Asia (AFA) often feature props or fan art incorporating words like doki doki, nyan~, or shiin… for comedic or dramatic effect.

TikTok, Reels, and memes

Short videos created in Singapore sometimes include sound words for mood or humor —

particularly by anime fans or Japanese-language learners.

Popular Japanese Sound Words in Singapore

Doki Doki (どきどき)

Meaning: Heart beating fast
Where it appears: Romance, anxiety, anticipation

Many fans recognize doki doki from anime and TikTok content. Its emotional rhythm appeals across languages.

あわせて読みたい

What Does “Doki Doki” Mean in Japanese? The Sound of Heart-Pounding Excitement If you’ve ever felt your heart race with excitement, nervousness, or love — the Japanese onomatopoeia “Doki Doki” (どきどき) is the perfect way to express th…

Nyaa (にゃあ)

Meaning: Meow
Where it appears: Cosplay, memes

ニャー is used similarly to other countries — especially in cosplay and meme content. The sound is familiar and easily mimicked.

あわせて読みたい

What Sound Do Cats Make in Japanese? Discover the cutest “Meow” You’ve Never Heard This Way When a cat strolls by and lets out a soft “meow,” what do the Japanese hear?They hear “Nyaa nyaa!” (にゃぁにゃあ)— the adorable sound of a cat’s voice in Jap…

Shiin… (しーん…)

Meaning: Silence or tension
Where it appears: Comedy, awkward scenes

The quiet “sound” of silence resonates with Singaporean humor. Fans use it in fan art and skits.

あわせて読みたい

What Is “Shiiin…”? The Japanese Sound of Total Silence and Crickets Chirping Ever felt the air freeze in awkward silence? Or watched a scene where even the crickets stopped chirping?That’s when the Japanese onomatopoeia “Shiiin…” (し…

あわせて読みたい

What Does “Dead Silence” or “Awkward Silence” Sound Like in Japanese? Let’s Dive into Anime &… In English-language anime and manga, you may come across expressions like “Dead Silence” or “Awkward Silence” during quiet scenes — moments that feel tense, …

Why Singaporeans Love These Words

Often used in cosplay and fan content

They’re expressive and emotional

Blend naturally into multilingual humor

Common in anime and easy to recognize

Fun Fact

In Singapore, it’s not uncommon to hear anime fans say things like “Doki doki moment!” or “That’s so shiin…” —

blending Japanese sound words with English in daily conversation.