ぎゅう

Frequency:

1an onomatopoeic adverb meaning to squeeze or press something tightly (often seen as 'gyuu to' or 'gyuu tto').

AdverbAdverb Taking 'と'Onomatopoeic or Mimetic Word

Examples

子どもをぎゅうと抱きしめた。

I hugged the child tightly.

箱の中身が壊れないように、段ボールをぎゅうぎゅう詰めにした。

I packed the cardboard box tightly so the contents wouldn't break.

手すりをぎゅうと握って階段を上った。

I gripped the handrail tightly and climbed the stairs.

2an onomatopoeic adverb used figuratively for severely criticizing or pressing someone (e.g., 'to press someone hard').

AdverbAdverb Taking 'と'

Examples

会議で上司にぎゅうと問いただされて、答えに詰まった。

At the meeting I was pressed hard by my boss and was at a loss for an answer.

記者は疑惑について彼をぎゅうと追及した。

Reporters pressed him hard about the allegations.

3colloquial noun meaning a hug — the act of holding someone tightly.

NounColloquial

Examples

疲れているときは、ただぎゅうが欲しくなる。

When I'm tired, I just want a hug.

写真を撮る前に、みんなでぎゅうして集まった。

Before taking the photo, everyone huddled together for a group hug.

娘が帰ってきたら、まずぎゅうをしてあげるつもりだ。

When my daughter comes home, I plan to give her a hug first.