When someone picks up the phone in Japan, they don’t say “Hello?”
They say — Moshi Moshi!（もしもし）
It’s warm, casual, and instantly recognizable.
Even if it’s not technically onomatopoeia, the repetitive sound gives it a friendly, rhythmic vibe —
making it feel like a sound word.
Let’s hear how it sounds!
What is “Moshi Moshi” (もしもし)?
“Moshi Moshi” is a Japanese phone greeting,
used when answering or starting a call.
It doesn’t describe sound like most onomatopoeia,
but its gentle repetition makes it feel like one —
almost like knocking on a conversation.
It’s considered an almost onomatopoeia — friendly, rhythmic, and full of human warmth.
Pronunciation
mo-shee mo-shee
(Soft and smooth — like calling out gently.)
Categories
Sound
What Does “Moshi Moshi” Look Like?
It looks like someone holding a phone to their ear.
Or a cartoon character waving while talking to a friend on the line.
Or a classic rotary phone ringing in a quiet house.
How Do You Say It?
Say it kindly, like you’re checking in:
Moshi moshi?
You’re inviting someone into the call.
Examples in Daily Life
Example 1: Picking up the phone
The phone rang.
She answered:
Moshi Moshi?
Example 2: Trying to reconnect
“Are you still there?”
Moshi moshi??
The signal was breaking up.
Cultural Note
In English, we say:
- “Hello?”
- “Hey” (on casual calls)
- “Hi there!”
But Moshi Moshi is uniquely rhythmic and kind.
Originally used to make sure the other person wasn’t a ghost (!),
it now feels cheerful and warm.
Watch & Feel the “Moshi Moshi” World!
Feel the “Moshi Moshi” — A Phone Call
Try Using It!
Next time you pretend to answer a toy phone,
or pick up a banana like it’s a phone 🍌📞
Say cheerfully:
Moshi Moshi〜!
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