What Is “Gira Gira”? The Japanese Sound of Strong, Flashy Shine

Think of the sun blazing overhead with no mercy.
Or a flashy outfit sparkling under a disco ball.
Or… eyes burning with intensity or greed.

That’s the feeling of “Gira Gira” (ぎらぎら) — a strong, intense shine that can be dazzling, flashy… or intimidating.

Before we dive in, hear what it sounds like!

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What is “Gira Gira” (ぎらぎら)?

“Gira Gira” describes something shining strongly — but not softly or elegantly.
It’s bold, loud, maybe even aggressive.

It’s used for:

  • The scorching sun
  • Flashing lights or accessories
  • Piercing eyes
  • A person with a bold or gaudy presence

Not to be confused with “Kira Kira”, which is gentle, cute, or sparkly.

illustration of sound word, gira gira,  
ぎらぎら, Flashy Shine

Pronunciation

gee-rah gee-rah
(Sharp and rhythmic — like light bouncing in your eyes)

Category

Visual

What Does “Gira Gira” Look Like?

It looks like:

  • A sweaty person shielding their eyes from the sun
  • A villain’s eyes gleaming with evil
  • Flashy neon signs in a nightlife district
  • Sunglasses reflecting everything

How Do You Say It?

Say it like light bouncing aggressively:
Gira… gira…

Like the sun won’t stop staring,
or someone’s gaze is just too much.

Examples in Daily Life

Example 1: The scorching sun

The sun shone down gira gira,
and he had to squint just to walk.

illustration of sound word, gira gira,  
ぎらぎら, Flashy Shine

Example 2: Flashy clothes

He wore a gira gira suit,
every step catching someone’s eye.

illustration of sound word, gira gira,  
ぎらぎら, Flashy Shine

Cultural Note

“Gira Gira” can carry a slightly negative or overwhelming tone, unlike “Kira Kira”, which is soft and pretty.
It’s about intensity — the kind that can be a bit much.

Use it for:

  • A summer sun
  • A power-hungry look
  • Something loud or garish

Watch & Feel the “Gira Gira” World!

Feel the “Gira Gira” — Strong Sunlight

Try Using It!

If the sun is blinding,
Or someone’s gaze is burning through you…

Say it with a squint:
Gira gira…

More Visual-based Onomatopoeia:
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Naoboo
Welcome to this site — a soft and cozy space for you.
Here, Japanese onomatopoeic expressions are collected — each one like a tiny, sound-flavored candy, a little piece of the world shared gently and playfully.

I hope you’ll find a favorite or two to carry with you.
Thank you for visiting.

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