ドカーン
dokān
The English word "boom" can be translated into Japanese as ドカーン (dokān), an onomatopoeia representing an abrupt, low-pitched sound.
The onomatopoeia ドカーン is used to describe large, explosive or heavy sounds, such as a large explosion or a heavy object crashing down.
Meaning: abrupt, low-pitched sound (noun)
Which one should you use?
While ドカーン describes a large, heavy sound, the version ドーン is a slightly more common or standard form used for a heavy thud or a large explosion.
How do you pronounce it?
dokān
Did you know?
- Japanese onomatopoeia can be used to describe things that do not make sound at all. You can use similar phonetic structures to describe the 'feeling' of a heavy-hitting movement or a sudden, impactful change in atmosphere.
- In Japanese comedy, the phrase ドカーン can be used metaphorically to describe a joke that 'hits' the audience or a situation that results in a sudden and total failure.
- In Japanese manga, the size and thickness of the Katakana used for ドカーン are often drawn to reflect the volume of the explosion. A larger, bolder font indicates a much more violent and deafening sound than standard text.
Examples in context
- 最近、日本ではビーガンダイエットがブームです。Recently, the vegan diet has been booming in Japan.
- この地域は好況であり、多くの企業が成長しています。This region is booming, and many companies are growing.
- このアーティストは今、流行しているんだ。This artist is booming right now.
- ドカーンと大きな音がした。Dokaan to ookina oto ga shita.There was a loud boom.
- ドカーンという音が響いた。Dokaan to iu oto ga hibiita.A boom-like sound echoed.
- 遠くでドカーンと音がした。Tooku de dokaan to oto ga shita.There was a boom in the distance.
Example conversation
Two siblings are sitting in their living room at night.
- 陽太 Yota今、ドカーンと音がしなかった？Ima, dokaan to oto ga shinakatta?Didn't we just hear a boom?
- 陽葵 Himariうん、すごく大きな音だったね。Un, sugoku ookina oto datta ne.Yeah, it was a really loud sound.
- 陽太 Yota雷かな？Kaminari kana?Was it thunder?
- 陽葵 Himariたぶん、そうだと思うよ。Tabun, sou da to omou yo.Maybe, I think so.
