Entry
ぐるぐる
guruguru
Describes a continuous rotating motion or the act of winding something around repeatedly.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
This term is used to represent objects spinning continuously with significant force, the repetitive wrapping of long items like bandages, or the sensation of one's head spinning due to dizziness.
- Repetitive circular motion of objects
- Wrapping something in multiple layers
- Sensation of dizziness or confusion
Sense Map
Rotation
Continuous spinning or rotating motion of an object.
洗濯機の中で服がぐるぐる回っている。
Wrapping
Winding a long object around something multiple times.
腕に包帯をぐるぐる巻きにする。
Physical State
Feeling dizzy or as if the room is spinning.
頭の中がぐるぐるして、立っていられない。
Usage Note
How to Use
ぐるぐる回る
Used for things rotating in place or moving in circles repeatedly.
ぐるぐる巻き
A noun or verb form meaning to wind something around many times until thick.
ぐるぐるする
Describes a dizzy head or thoughts spinning out of control.
How to Use
Common Phrases
ぐるぐる回る
To spin round and round
ぐるぐる巻きにする
To wrap around repeatedly
目がぐるぐる回る
Eyes spinning (dizziness)
頭がぐるぐるする
Head is spinning
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Object Motion | neutral | Describes a steady, repetitive physical rotation. |
| Health | negative | Often used to describe unpleasant nausea or disorientation. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
くるくる くるくる / nearby | Use for lighter, faster spinning motions or for smaller objects. | Guruguru feels heavier and more powerful than the nimble kurukuru. | 風車がくるくる回る。 |
ぐるっと ぐるっと / contrast | Use for a single rotation or going around something once. | Guruguru is continuous, while gurutto happens once. | 辺りをぐるっと見渡す。 |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using guruguru for a small, lightweight handheld fan.
Use kurukuru for small objects spinning quickly and lightly.
Using guruguru for a single turn of the body.
Use gurutto or kururi for a single rotation.
Examples
Examples
洗濯機の中で、たくさんの服がぐるぐる回っている。
せんたくきのなかで、たくさんのふくがぐるぐるまわっている。
Inside the washing machine, many clothes are spinning round and round.
VisualDescribes mechanical repetitive rotation.
怪我をした腕に、包帯をぐるぐる巻きにした。
けがをしたうでに、ほうたいをぐるぐるまきにした。
I wrapped a bandage round and round my injured arm.
LiteralUses the guruguru-maki pattern for winding something.
お酒を飲みすぎて、頭がぐるぐるする。
おさけをのみすぎて、あたまがぐるぐるする。
My head is spinning because I drank too much alcohol.
FigurativeDescribes the sensation of dizziness or vertigo.
川に大きな渦がぐるぐる巻いている。
かわにおおきなうずがぐるぐるまいている。
A large whirlpool is swirling round and round in the river.
VisualShows the power of a large whirlpool.
子供たちが公園をぐるぐる走り回って遊んでいる。
こどもたちがこうえんをぐるぐるはしりまわってあそんでいる。
Children are playing by running round and round the park.
LiteralDescribes a continuous circular running path.
Similar Words
くるくる
kurukuru
Describes a light, continuous circular motion, the action of winding something repeatedly, or states that change rapidly. For lighter and faster spinning.
ぐるっと
gurutto
A firm, single motion of turning completely around or encircling something. For a single full rotation.
Questions
What is the difference between guruguru and kurukuru?
Guruguru is for larger, heavier, or more forceful motions. Kurukuru is for small, light, and fast movements.
Can I use guruguru for mental confusion?
Yes, 'atama ga guruguru suru' can mean your thoughts are spinning or you are very confused.
Is guruguru used for winding string?
Yes, it is very common for winding thread, rope, or bandages around something multiple times.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1004140
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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