びくびく
biku-biku EverydayManga-common Casual
Timidly, fearful of consequences
What does びくびく mean?
Describes being in a nervous, frightened state, constantly fearing that something bad will happen.
The Image: Derived from 'bikun' (a jump/twitch). It's the state of being so nervous you might jump at any sound.
When to use it
- Waiting for a strict boss to see your mistake
- Walking through a dark alley
- A guilty child before being scolded
Translation Warning
Focuses on the state of <em>anticipating</em> something scary/bad.
Avoid using when:
- For simple excitement (use 'doki-doki')
- For physical cold chills (use 'zoku-zoku')
Example Sentences
怒られるのではないかとビクビクしている。
I'm terrified that I might get scolded.
Fear地震の後は、少しの揺れでもビクビクしてしまう。
After the earthquake, I jump at even the slightest vibration.
Trauma