Translation guide
The act of sniffing slightly, often due to a cold, crying, or to avoid blowing one's nose. In Japanese, this is expressed with onomatopoeia, verbs, or descriptive phrases depending on the context.
To describe the sound or action of repeatedly sniffing because of nasal congestion or a runny nose.
The most common and neutral way to say 'sniffle' when referring to the action of sniffing back mucus. Literally 'to sniff one's nose'.
風邪で鼻をすすっている。
I'm sniffling because of a cold.
Refers specifically to the sound of sniffling. Useful when describing the noise itself.
彼の鼻をすする音が気になる。
His sniffling sound bothers me.
Onomatopoeia for sniffling, often used adverbially with する. Conveys a soft, repetitive sniffing sound, typically from a cold or mild crying.
彼女はぐすぐすと鼻をすすった。
She sniffled softly.
To describe the sniffly, congested sound made while or after crying.
Means to sob or weep convulsively, often accompanied by sniffling. Emphasizes the crying action with audible sniffs.
子供は泣きじゃくりながら話した。
The child talked while sniffling from crying.
Literally 'to make one's nose sniffle'. Describes the action of sniffling due to tears, often with a sense of trying to hold back crying.
彼女は鼻をぐすぐすさせて、涙をぬぐった。
She sniffled and wiped her tears.
To describe one instance of sniffing, often to express disdain, hesitation, or as a minor physical action.
Can also be used for a single sniff, though context usually makes it clear. Often accompanied by adverbs like ちょっと or 一度.
彼は一度鼻をすすると、話し始めた。
He sniffled once and began to speak.
Onomatopoeia for a short, sharp sniff. Often used in manga or casual speech. Can imply a slight emotional reaction.
彼女はすんと鼻を鳴らした。
She gave a little sniffle.
In Japan, sniffling repeatedly in public without blowing your nose is often considered impolite or unrefined. It's more acceptable to excuse yourself to blow your nose privately. However, blowing your nose in public is also sometimes seen as rude, so people may sniffle discreetly or use a handkerchief.