The Delightful Sounds of “Zakuzaku” and “Sakusaku”

Have you ever eaten granola and heard that satisfying crunchy sound? That sound is known as “ザクザク zakuzaku” or “サクサク sakusaku” in Japanese. It is a word used to describe the sound made when walking on gravel or small stones. But “zakuzaku” and “sakusaku” are not just limited to the sound of footsteps. It can also represent the sound of chopping vegetables or the rustling of coins.

The sound of Calbee granola

The package states that it has おいしさ、ザクザク in the middle, which has two meanings. Firstly, it refers to a sound of crunchiness. Secondly, it describes the sensation of having pieces of granola abundantly poured into a bowl, similar to coins being poured out onto a table. So “zakuzaku” has an image of gold coins.

The crunchy (zakuzaku) texture is addictive and delicious.

ザクザクとした食感がクセになって美味しい。

/zakuzaku to ʃita ʃjokkan ɡa kuse ni natte oiʃiː/

The Rustling of Coins

Imagine a heap of gold coins being poured onto a table. The sound it makes can be described as “ザクザク zakuzaku.” This conveys the abundance of wealth of the coins. The rough and jingling sound of “zakuzaku” creates an image of numerous coins cascading down. It is a vivid and thrilling way to describe a scene of treasure or financial abundance.

From the withdrawal, gold coins came pouring out (zakuzaku).

引き出しから小判がザクザクと出てきた。

/ hikidaʃi kaɾa koban ɡa zakuzaku to detekita/

The Sound of Chopping

When you forcefully chop vegetables, the sound it makes is often described as “ザクザク zakuzaku.” This word captures the sound of a knife cutting through cabbage or other crunchy vegetables. The sharp and powerful sound adds to the satisfaction of cooking. Whether you are preparing a stir-fry or a salad, the “zakuzaku” sound brings a sense of energy and freshness to your kitchen.

Chop (zakuzaku) the cabbage into small pieces.

キャベツをザクザク刻む。

/kjabetsu o zakuzaku kizamu/

The Sound of サクサク sakusaku

In addition to “ザクザク zakuzaku,” another onomatopoeic word commonly used in Japanese to describe a crunchy sound is “サクサク sakusaku.” This word is often associated with the texture and sound of biting into crispy foods like cookies or chips. When you take a bite and hear that satisfying crispy sound, it can be described as “sakusaku.” The word conveys a sense of freshness and lightness, as if the food is breaking apart easily.

Freshly baked crispy (sakusaku) apple pie

焼きたてでサクサクのアップルパイ

/jakitate de sakusaku no appuɾupai/

The Delightful Texture

Just like “ザクザク zakuzaku,” “サクサク sakusaku” is not limited to food. It can also describe the texture of various materials. For example, when you step on dry leaves, you may hear and feel a “サクサク sakusaku” sensation. The word captures the delicate and airy texture that easily breaks into small pieces.

Walking on fallen leaves feels crisp (sakusaku) and pleasant.

枯葉の上を歩くとサクサクして気持ちいい。

/kaɾeha no ue o aɾukuto sakusaku ʃite kimotʃi iː/

My PC works smoothly “サクサク sakusaku”

Things sometimes progress smoothly and quickly, which can be described as “sakusaku”.

My computer runs smoothly (sakusaku).

パソコンがさくさく動く。

/pasokon ga sakusaku ugoku/

In conclusion, the delightful sounds of “ザクザク zakuzaku” and “サクサク sakusaku” hold a special place in Japanese culture. These onomatopoeic words not only describe the satisfying crunchiness of food but also capture the essence of various experiences, from walking on gravel to chopping vegetables.