ドキドキ
doki-doki EverydaySpokenManga-common Informal to Semi-formal
Heart-pounding (with excitement or nervousness)
What does ドキドキ mean?
Describes the sound or physical sensation of a fast-beating heart due to strong emotions like love, fear, or excitement.
The Image: Imagine a bass drum or a heavy pulse inside the chest. It's a rhythmic, repeating thumping.
When to use it
- Before a big presentation
- When seeing a romantic crush
- While watching a suspenseful movie
Translation Warning
Don't confuse context. In English, 'heart-pounding' can be scary, but doki-doki is often positive or romantic.
Avoid using when:
- Heart-pounding after physical exercise (use 'zeze' or 'haahaa')
- Chronic medical heart palpitations
Example Sentences
告白する前に胸がドキドキした。
My heart was pounding before I confessed my love.
Romantic試験の結果が出るのでドキドキする。
I'm nervous because the exam results are coming out.
Anxietyジェットコースターに乗って、ドキドキが止まらない！
I rode the roller coaster and my heart won't stop thumping!
Excitement