Entry
ぎゅっと
gyutto
The act of applying firm, concentrated pressure when squeezing, gripping, or hugging something.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
This word describes physical actions involving a secure grip or a tight embrace. It often implies strength, security, or affection. As the voiced counterpart to 'kyutto', it suggests a heavier or more substantial application of force.
- A strong physical grip or hold on an object.
- A tight embrace showing affection or deep emotion.
- Applying pressure to a container or object to extract contents.
Sense Map
Gripping and Squeezing
Applying strong pressure to an object with hands or fingers.
ハンドルをぎゅっと握る。
Embracing and Affection
Holding someone or something tightly to show feelings.
子供をぎゅっと抱きしめる。
Usage Note
How to Use
ぎゅっとする
Used as a verb to indicate the act of giving a squeeze or hug.
ぎゅっとした + noun
Used to describe a noun that receives the squeezing or firm action.
ぎゅっと + verb
Functions as an adverb to describe how an action (like holding or squeezing) is performed.
How to Use
Common Phrases
ぎゅっと握る
to grip tightly
ぎゅっと抱きしめる
to hug tightly
ぎゅっと絞る
to squeeze hard
ぎゅっと閉める
to close firmly
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Social Interaction | positive | Conveys affection and warmth when hugging someone. |
| Physical Tasks | neutral | Shows the seriousness or effort used to hold a tool or object. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
きゅっと きゅっと / similar | Use for smaller, sharper, or briefer pressure. | Does not convey the same sense of great strength or warmth as the voiced version. | ネクタイをキュッと結ぶ。 |
ぎゅうぎゅう ぎゅうぎゅう / similar | Use when stuffing many items into a small space. | Focuses on the density of space rather than a single strong squeeze. | カバンに荷物をぎゅうぎゅうに詰める。 |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using it for clothes that feel tight.
Use pichipichi or kitsui for clothes that are too small.
Using it for a very tight schedule.
Use kitsui or tsumatta for a busy schedule.
Examples
Examples
レモンをぎゅっと絞って、ジュースを作る。
レモンをぎゅっとしぼって、ジュースをつくる。
Squeeze the lemon hard to make juice.
LiteralShows the physical act of squeezing fruit.
寂しいときは、ぬいぐるみをぎゅっと抱きしめます。
さびしいときは、ぬいぐるみをぎゅっとだきしめます。
When I feel lonely, I hug my stuffed animal tightly.
FigurativeDescribes emotion and affection through a hug.
転ばないように、手すりをぎゅっと握ってください。
ころばないように、てすりをぎゅっとにぎってください。
Please grip the handrail tightly so you don't fall.
LiteralInstruction to apply physical pressure for safety.
蓋（ふた）をぎゅっと閉めないと、中身がこぼれます。
ふたをぎゅっとしめないと、なかみがこぼれます。
If you don't close the lid tightly, the contents will spill.
LiteralThe act of closing something with pressure to prevent leaking.
彼は勇気を出して、彼女の手をぎゅっと握った。
かれはゆうきをだして、かのじょのてをぎゅっとにぎった。
He summoned his courage and gripped her hand tightly.
FigurativeDescribes determination and feelings in a handshake/holding hands.
Similar Words
キュッと
kyutto
Lighter and sharper version, often for small pressures.
ぎゅうぎゅう
gyuugyuu
This word describes a state where things or people are packed so tightly into a space that there is intense pressure. Emphasizes density or stuffing many things together.
ぎゅう
gyuu
ぎゅう (gyuu) describes the action of pressing, squeezing, or hugging something very tightly, as well as applying severe psychological pressure.
しっかり
shikkari
Describes a state of being firm, secure, or doing something thoroughly and reliably.
Questions
What is the difference between gyutto and shikkari?
Shikkari is more general for stating something is solid or secure, while gyutto focuses on the physical sensation of the pressure or squeeze itself.
Can I use gyutto for keeping a promise?
No, gyutto is only used for physical actions. For keeping a promise, use shikkari.
Is this a polite word?
Yes, it is a neutral word and can be used in daily conversation with anyone.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1003620
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
- Previous entry
- ぎゅうぎゅう (gyuugyuu)
- Next entry
- ぎょっと (gyotto)