In English-language anime and manga, zapping or shocking moments are often described with words like “Electric Shock”, “Zap!”, or “Tingling Sensation.”
These are the moments when a character touches something charged —
and gets that sharp, buzzing jolt that makes their whole body twitch.
But how is this feeling expressed in Japanese?
Let’s step into the world of anime and manga and discover how Japanese onomatopoeia gives electricity its own sound.
What Is an “Electric Shock” Moment?
It’s that instant jolt —
a sting, a tingle, or a flash of energy that zaps through your skin.
In anime and manga, this happens when:
- a character gets shocked by static electricity
- someone touches a doorknob in winter and jumps
- lightning magic zaps through the screen
- spicy food creates a burning, electric sensation on the tongue
In English, you might hear it described as:
- Zap! – A quick burst of electricity
- Electric Shock – A painful jolt from a current
- Buzz / Jolt / Tingle – Variations of electric sensation
- Zing! – A more playful, exaggerated version
So what’s the Japanese sound for this crackling, stinging moment?
How Is This Feeling Expressed in Japanese?
Japanese uses onomatopoeia to represent not only sounds —
but also physical sensations, including the sharp sting of electricity.
The perfect word for this electric jolt is:
“Biri Biri” (びりびり)
It’s the sound and feeling of something crackling, buzzing, or tingling —
especially from static electricity or lightning.
Let’s hear how it sounds.
What Is Japanese Onomatopoeia “Biri Biri” (びりびり) ?
“Biri Biri” is a Japanese onomatopoeia that expresses a sharp, crackling, or tearing sensation.
When it comes to electricity, it’s the perfect match for:
- static shocks
- buzzing electrical current
- lightning bolts
- tingling pain or overstimulation
It’s vivid, spiky, and a little dangerous.
Used in:
- Getting shocked by static electricity
- Magical or lightning-based attacks in anime
- Feeling your fingers “buzz” after touching metal
- Tongue-tingling spiciness that stings like a jolt
Pronunciation
bee-ree bee-ree
(Say it with a quick, snappy rhythm — like something tearing in an instant or electricity sparking)
Categories
Sound / Condition
Examples in Daily Life
To learn about how it appears in manga or daily conversation, dive into the following page:
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