Entry
キビキビ
kibikibi
Performing actions or speaking in a brisk, energetic, and efficient manner.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
Kibikibi is used to describe movements or speech that are sharp, spirited, and free of sluggishness. It implies a sense of discipline and vitality, often used in professional, athletic, or military contexts where efficiency and energy are prioritized.
- Sharp and spirited physical movements
- Working efficiently and without hesitation
- Speaking in a crisp and vigorous tone
Sense Map
Physical Movement
Describes sharp and lively body movements during exercise or walking.
Kibikibi to aruku (To walk with a brisk and steady pace)
Action and Work
Describes working efficiently and with great spirit, leaving no room for wasted effort.
Kibikibi hataraku (To work very energetically and efficiently)
Usage Note
How to Use
キビキビと + verb
Used as an adverb to explain how an action is performed with high energy.
キビキビした + noun
Used to describe a noun, such as movements or a tone of voice, that has a brisk quality.
キビキビ（と）動く
How to Use
Common Phrases
キビキビと動く
To move briskly
キビキビした動作
Brisk movements
キビキビ働く
To work energetically
キビキビ話す
To speak sharply and spiritedly
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Workplace | positive | Gives the impression of a reliable and diligent employee. |
| Physical Exercise | neutral | Indicates exercises done with focus and strength. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
てきぱき てきぱき / similar | Use when focusing on efficiency in handling tasks one after another. | Kibikibi emphasizes physical energy and the sharpness of movement more than the speed of task completion. | Finishing chores tekipaki. |
はきはき はきはき / similar | Use specifically for a clear, pleasant, and energetic manner of speaking or attitude. | Kibikibi covers physical movement broadly, while hakihaki focuses on the clarity of voice and a bright attitude. | Answering questions hakihaki. |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using kibikibi to mean just 'fast' (hayai).
Kibikibi is about a spirited manner, not just speed. You wouldn't use it for a fast car.
Thinking it is always casual.
On the contrary, kibikibi often gives a formal, disciplined, or serious impression, like in a workplace or drill.
Examples
Examples
新しいアルバイトはキビキビと働いている。
あたらしいアルバイトはキビキビとはたらいている。
The new part-timer is working very briskly.
LiteralIndicates an efficient way of working.
兵士たちがキビキビした動作で訓練している。
へいしたたちがキビキビしたどうさでくんれんしている。
The soldiers are training with sharp, brisk movements.
VisualEmphasizes the sharpness of physical movement.
彼女はきびきびと部屋を片付けた。
かのじょはきびきびとへやをかたづけた。
She tidied the room energetically and efficiently.
VisualDescribes a cleaning action with no wasted movement.
隊長はキビキビとした口調で指示を出した。
たいちょうはキビキビとしたくちょうでしじをだした。
The captain gave instructions in a brisk, sharp tone.
FigurativeRefers to the energy in the voice.
朝のラジオ体操をキビキビと行う。
あさのラジオたいそうをキビキビとおこなう。
Doing the morning radio calisthenics energetically.
VisualShows morning vitality.
Similar Words
てきぱき
tekipaki
Doing tasks or taking action quickly, efficiently, and without hesitation. Focuses on the speed of task completion.
はきはき
hakihaki
Speaking or acting in a clear, brisk, and energetic manner that shows confidence. Focuses on speech and bright attitude.
しゃっきり
shakkiri
Describes a crisp food texture, feeling mentally refreshed and alert, or having a straight and upright posture.
Questions
Can kibikibi be used for inanimate objects?
Generally no. Kibikibi is used for living beings (humans or sometimes animals) showing conscious control over spirited movement.
What is the difference between kibikibi and tekipaki?
Kibikibi focuses on the energy and sharpness of physical movement, while tekipaki focuses on the speed and efficiency of finishing a sequence of tasks.
When is the best time to use this word?
Use it when you want to praise someone for being alert and not wasting any time in their actions.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1003460
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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