ぎゅう

Frequency:
1

an 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.

2

an 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.

3

colloquial 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.