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B1 noun #10,000 most common 10 min read

動悸

dōki Top 10,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 動悸 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 動悸 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word '動悸' (dōki) might be a bit difficult because it is a formal noun. Most beginners learn 'ドキドキ' (doki doki) first. 'ドキドキ' is an onomatopoeia that sounds like a heart beating. You use it when you are excited or nervous. However, it is good to know that '動悸' exists. Think of 'ドキドキ' as 'my heart is going thump-thump' and '動悸' as the official name for that feeling. You don't need to use '動悸' in basic conversation, but you might see it in a doctor's office or on a medicine bottle. If you want to say your heart is beating fast because you are scared, 'ドキドキします' is enough for now. Just remember that '動悸' is the 'big person' word for a fast heart.

At the A2 level, you should start recognizing '動悸' (dōki) as a noun that means 'palpitations.' You will mostly see it paired with the verb 'する' (suru). For example, '動悸がします' (dōki ga shimasu) means 'I am having palpitations.' This is very useful if you feel sick in Japan and need to tell someone. While you still use 'ドキドキ' for being excited about a party, you use '動悸' when you feel like your heart is beating too fast in a way that is not normal or comfortable. You might also see this word in simple news stories about health or heat in the summer. It's a key word for describing how your body feels when you are not 100% healthy.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '動悸' (dōki) correctly in medical and formal contexts. You should understand that it is a 'kango' (Sino-Japanese word) and carries a more serious tone than 'ドキドキ.' You should be able to use it with different particles and verbs, such as '動悸を感じる' (to feel palpitations) or '動悸がひどい' (palpitations are severe). At this level, you should also know the common pairing '動悸・息切れ' (palpitations and shortness of breath), which is a standard way to describe physical distress. You can use '動悸' to describe symptoms to a doctor or to explain why you had to leave a stressful situation. It shows you have moved beyond basic descriptions to more precise, adult vocabulary.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '動悸' (dōki) compared to words like '鼓動' (kodō) and '脈拍' (myakuhaku). You should recognize that '動悸' is subjective—it's what the person *feels*—whereas '脈拍' is the objective pulse rate. You should be comfortable using '動悸' in writing, such as in a formal essay about stress in the workplace or a report on health trends. You should also understand its use in literature to describe intense psychological states, where the physical symptom of a racing heart represents deep fear, guilt, or anxiety. At this level, you should be able to explain the difference between 'doki doki' and 'dōki' to a lower-level learner.

At the C1 level, you should be familiar with '動悸' (dōki) in technical and academic contexts. This includes understanding its role as a symptom in various medical conditions like '自律神経失調症' (autonomic ataxia) or '更年期障害' (menopausal disorders). You should be able to discuss the physiological causes of '動悸,' such as adrenaline or caffeine, using advanced vocabulary. You should also recognize the word in classical or high-level modern literature, where it might be used metaphorically to describe a character's internal turmoil. Your usage should be flawless, knowing exactly when the clinical '動悸' is appropriate versus the more poetic '鼓動' or the colloquial 'ドキドキ.'

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of '動悸' (dōki). You understand its etymology and can distinguish it from extremely rare synonyms like '心悸亢進' (shinkikōshin). You can interpret subtle nuances in medical journals or pharmaceutical law regarding how '動悸' is listed as a side effect. You are also sensitive to the cultural usage of the word—how it appears in Japanese 'health culture' and traditional medicine (Kampo). You can use the word with total precision in any register, from a casual joke about being 'too old for this' to a formal medical consultation or a deep literary analysis of a protagonist's physical response to trauma.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

動悸 in 30 Seconds

動悸 (dōki) means 'palpitations'—the uncomfortable feeling of your heart racing or skipping beats.
It is a formal noun, unlike the casual onomatopoeia 'doki doki'.
Commonly used in medical contexts or to describe physical reactions to intense stress.
Often paired with the verb 'suru' (動悸がする) or the symptom '息切れ' (ikigire - shortness of breath).

The Japanese word 動悸 (どうき - dōki) is a specialized noun that specifically refers to the sensation of one's own heartbeat. In English, we most commonly translate this as palpitations. It describes a state where the heart beats in a way that is noticeably rapid, forceful, or irregular. Unlike the neutral word for heartbeat, 鼓動 (kodō), which can be used in poetic or biological contexts without negative connotation, 動悸 almost always carries a nuance of discomfort, medical concern, or intense physiological reaction to stress or excitement.

Medical Context: In a clinical setting, 動悸 is a symptom. Patients use it to describe feelings of tachycardia (rapid heart rate) or arrhythmia. Doctors will ask, "いつから動悸がしますか？" (Since when have you been having palpitations?). This is the primary use of the word in daily life for adults.
Psychological Context: The word is frequently used to describe the physical manifestation of anxiety, panic, or extreme nervousness. If someone is about to give a speech or is facing a terrifying situation, they might say their 動悸 won't stop. It signifies the body's 'fight or flight' response.
Romantic Context: While doki doki (the onomatopoeia) is the go-to for 'heart-throb' moments in anime, 動悸 can be used more formally or slightly humorously to describe the intense physical reaction to seeing a crush. For example, "彼を見ると動悸がする" (My heart races when I see him), though this sounds more like a medical condition than a sweet flutter.

階段を上っただけで激しい動悸がするようになりました。
I have started to get severe palpitations just from climbing the stairs.

Understanding the kanji helps solidify the meaning. The first character, 動 (dō), means 'motion' or 'to move' (as in ugoku). The second character, 悸 (ki), is less common in daily life but specifically means 'to shake' or 'to throb' with fear or excitement. Together, they create a compound that literally translates to 'moving throb.' This isn't just a heart beating; it is a heart that is moving in a way that catches your attention, often uncomfortably.

緊張のあまり、動悸が止まらなくなった。
Because of the tension, my palpitations wouldn't stop.

Age and Usage: Younger people might use doki doki to describe nerves, but as you enter adulthood and specifically in medical or formal contexts, 動悸 becomes the standard term. It sounds more objective and serious than onomatopoeia.

更年期障害の症状の一つに動悸があります。
Palpitations are one of the symptoms of menopause.

コーヒーを飲みすぎると、動悸がすることがある。
If you drink too much coffee, you might get palpitations.

突然の動悸に襲われた。
I was suddenly attacked by palpitations (I suddenly felt my heart racing).

In summary, 動悸 is a term that bridges the gap between a physical sensation and a medical symptom. It is essential for describing health issues, panic attacks, or extreme physiological stress in a clear, adult manner. While A1 learners might stick to "doki doki," a B1 learner should master 動悸 to discuss health and deep emotions more accurately.

Using 動悸 (dōki) correctly requires understanding its common verb pairings. Unlike some nouns that can be used flexibly, 動悸 usually appears in a few fixed patterns. The most common is 動悸がする (dōki ga suru), which literally means "palpitations occur" or "to have palpitations." This is the standard way to express the experience in both medical and casual settings.

Pattern 1: [Noun] + がする: This is the most frequent usage. It describes the state of feeling the palpitations.
Example: "夜中に急に動悸がして目が覚めた" (I suddenly had palpitations in the middle of the night and woke up).
Pattern 2: [Noun] + を感じる / を覚える: These patterns are slightly more formal or descriptive. Oboeru in this context means 'to feel' rather than 'to remember.'
Example: "激しい運動の後に動悸を感じる" (I feel palpitations after intense exercise).
Pattern 3: [Noun] + が激しい / がひどい: Used to describe the intensity of the palpitations.
Example: "今日は動悸がひどいので、家で休みます" (My palpitations are bad today, so I will rest at home).

ストレスが溜まると、決まって動悸がしてくる。
When stress builds up, I invariably start getting palpitations.

When constructing sentences, it's important to note that 動悸 is often paired with 息切れ (ikigire - shortness of breath). In Japanese medical contexts, these two symptoms are frequently mentioned together as a set phrase: 動悸・息切れ. You will see this on the packaging of many over-the-counter heart medications or herbal supplements (like Kyushin).

医師に「動悸はありますか？」と聞かれた。
I was asked by the doctor, "Do you have palpitations?"

In more literary or dramatic contexts, you might see 動悸が高鳴る (dōki ga takanaru). While takanaru is usually used with kodō (heartbeat), using it with 動悸 emphasizes a sense of pounding that is almost overwhelming, often due to fear or intense anticipation.

犯人を追い詰める刑事の胸に、激しい動悸が走った。
A violent palpitation ran through the chest of the detective as he cornered the criminal.

Common Adjectives: - 激しい (hageshii): Violent/Intense
- 軽い (karui): Slight
- 不規則な (fukisoku na): Irregular
- 一時的な (ichijiteki na): Temporary

そのニュースを聞いた瞬間、心臓が止まるかのような動悸を感じた。
The moment I heard that news, I felt palpitations as if my heart were going to stop.

Remember that 動悸 is a noun. If you want to use it as a verb, you must add suru. You cannot say "dōki-u" or "dōki-i". It is a fixed Chinese-origin compound (kango) that behaves like a standard noun-verb pairing.

The word 動悸 (dōki) is ubiquitous in specific domains of Japanese life. While you might not hear it in a casual conversation about what to eat for lunch, you will certainly encounter it in health-related, stressful, or high-stakes environments. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word instantly when it matters most.

1. Hospitals and Clinics (Byōin): This is the most common place. When filling out a medical questionnaire (monshinhyō), 動悸 is almost always listed as a symptom to check. Doctors use it to distinguish between general chest pain and the specific sensation of the heart racing. If you go to a cardiologist (junkankika), you will hear this word multiple times.
2. Pharmaceutical Commercials (CM): Japanese television is famous for its commercials for traditional and modern medicines. Phrases like "動悸、息切れに..." (For palpitations and shortness of breath...) are iconic. Products like Kyushin (small heart-shaped pills) have used this specific wording for decades, making the term familiar even to children.
3. News Reports and Weather Advisories: During the humid Japanese summers, news reports on heatstroke (netsuchūshō) often list 動悸 as a warning sign. They advise viewers that if they experience palpitations or dizziness, they should seek shade and hydration immediately.

「最近、動悸が激しくて、夜も眠れないんです」
"Recently, my palpitations have been so intense that I can't even sleep at night." (Patient to doctor)

In the world of entertainment, 動悸 appears in psychological thrillers, medical dramas, and even romance. In a medical drama like Doctor-X or Code Blue, surgeons might discuss a patient's 動悸 as a sign of a failing valve or an electrolyte imbalance. In romance, it might be used by a character who is confused about their feelings, wondering if their racing heart is due to illness or love.

更年期の女性をターゲットにしたサプリメントの広告には、必ずと言っていいほど「動悸」の文字があります。
In advertisements for supplements targeted at menopausal women, the word "palpitations" appears almost without fail.

Finally, you will find this word in workplace safety training. In Japan's intense work culture, exhaustion-related heart issues are a serious concern. Training manuals might list 動悸 as a sign that an employee needs to take mental health leave or reduce overtime hours.

「もし仕事中に動悸やめまいがしたら、すぐに上司に報告してください」
"If you experience palpitations or dizziness during work, please report it to your supervisor immediately."

By paying attention to these contexts, you'll see that 動悸 is a vital bridge between emotional experience and physical health in the Japanese language.

While 動悸 (dōki) is a straightforward noun, learners often make mistakes regarding its register, its confusion with related words, and its grammatical usage. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing 動悸 (dōki) with 鼓動 (kodō): This is the most frequent error. 鼓動 is a neutral, often positive or poetic term for the heartbeat. You would use kodō to describe the sound of a baby's heart in the womb or the "thumping" of a heart in a romantic poem. 動悸, however, is a symptom or a distressing sensation. Saying "I felt the baby's 動悸" would sound like the baby is having a medical emergency!
Mistake 2: Overusing it for simple excitement: If you are slightly excited about a new video game, don't use 動悸. Use waku waku or doki doki. 動悸 is for when your heart is pounding so hard it feels like a problem. Using 動悸 for small things makes you sound like you are being overly dramatic or that you are actually ill.
Mistake 3: Using the wrong particles: Learners sometimes try to say "I palpitations" (動悸をします - dōki wo shimasu). This is grammatically incorrect. It should be 動悸がする (dōki ga suru). The palpitations are something that occurs to you, not something you do.

Incorrect: 彼のことが好きすぎて動悸をしています。
Correct: 彼のことが好きすぎて動悸がします。
Note: Even then, "doki doki shimasu" is more natural for love.

Another subtle mistake is forgetting that 動悸 is a kango (Sino-Japanese word). Kango tend to be more formal. If you are talking to a very close friend about a tiny bit of nervousness, using 動悸 might feel too stiff. Onomatopoeia (doki doki) is the 'informal' version, while 動悸 is the 'formal/medical' version.

❌ 「テストの前に少し動悸がした」 (Too clinical)
✅ 「テストの前に少しドキドキした」 (Natural for small nerves)

Confusion with 脈 (Myaku): 脈 (myaku) refers to the pulse, specifically what you feel at your wrist. 動悸 is what you feel in your chest. If you are telling a doctor your heart is racing, say 動悸. If you are telling them your pulse is fast, say myaku ga hayai.

Finally, avoid using 動悸 for external things. A drum cannot have 動悸. A car engine cannot have 動悸. It is strictly a human (or animal) physiological sensation. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you'll avoid sounding like a textbook and start sounding like a proficient speaker.

To truly master 動悸 (dōki), you need to know the words that surround it. Japanese has a rich vocabulary for describing bodily sensations, and choosing the right one depends on the intensity and the cause of the feeling.

1. ドキドキ (Doki Doki): Usage: Onomatopoeia. Very common.
Difference: Casual and versatile. Can be positive (excitement) or negative (fear). 動悸 is the formal, noun version of this sensation, usually negative or medical.
2. 鼓動 (Kodō): Usage: Noun. Heartbeat / Pulsation.
Difference: Neutral or poetic. Focuses on the physical rhythm. "The kodō of the earth." You don't say "The dōki of the earth."
3. 息切れ (Ikigire): Usage: Noun. Shortness of breath.
Difference: Often paired with 動悸. While 動悸 is about the heart, ikigire is about the lungs/breathing.
4. 胸騒ぎ (Munasawagi): Usage: Noun. Premonition / Unease.
Difference: This is a psychological feeling that "something bad is going to happen." It might cause 動悸, but munasawagi is about the anxiety itself, not just the heartbeat.

「動悸」は医学的、「ドキドキ」は日常的。
"Dōki" is medical; "Doki Doki" is everyday.

When comparing these, think about the register. If you are in a boardroom or a doctor's office, use 動悸. If you are with friends or watching a romantic movie, use doki doki. If you are writing a poem or a high-fantasy novel, use kodō.

Another word to be aware of is 心悸亢進 (shinkikōshin). This is an even more technical, academic medical term for palpitations. You likely won't need to say this unless you are a medical student or reading a very dense medical report, but you might see it in formal health documents. For 99% of situations, 動悸 is the most professional word you'll need.

不整脈（ふせいみゃく）に伴う動悸。
Palpitations accompanying arrhythmia.

By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can express exactly what you are feeling—whether it's a medical symptom, a romantic flutter, or a poetic observation—with the appropriate level of formality.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The second kanji '悸' contains the 'heart' radical (忄) on the left, indicating it relates to emotions or internal organs.

Pronunciation Guide

UK dəʊki

US doʊki

Pitch accent: Atamadaka (Type 1). The first syllable 'DŌ' is high, and 'ki' is low.

Rhymes With

Kōki (high grade) Sōki (early stage) Hōki (broom) Kōki (light) Shōki (sanity) Yōki (cheerful) Tōki (ceramics) Kōki (fragrance)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'dōki' and 'doki' the same. The long 'ō' is essential.
Confusing the pitch with 'dōki' (colleague), which has a different accent pattern.
Mispronouncing the 'ki' as 'kai'.
Using a flat English stress instead of Japanese pitch accent.
Shortening the 'ō' so it sounds like 'doki doki'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are slightly advanced but common in medical contexts.

Writing 4/5

The second kanji '悸' is difficult to write from memory.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to say, just remember the long vowel.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'colleague' (dōki) without context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

心臓動くする激しいドキドキ

Learn Next

不整脈息切れめまい自律神経更年期

Advanced

心悸亢進虚血性心疾患心室細動心不全

Grammar to Know

Noun + がする

動悸がする、匂いがする、音がする。

Noun + を覚える

動悸を覚える、違和感を覚える。

Cause + で/によって

ストレスで動悸がする。

Noun + への + Noun

心臓への負担。

Verb (Potential) + なくなる

動悸が止まらなくなる。

Examples by Level

心臓がドキドキします。

My heart is going thump-thump.

A1 usually uses 'doki doki' instead of 'dōki'.

動悸がありますか？

Do you have palpitations?

Using 'arimasu' to ask about a symptom.

走ったあと、動悸がしました。

After running, I had palpitations.

Past tense of 'suru'.

動悸はこわいです。

Palpitations are scary.

Simple noun + wa + adjective.

これは動悸の薬です。

This is medicine for palpitations.

Noun + no + Noun.

お茶を飲んで動悸がしました。

I drank tea and got palpitations.

Using 'te-form' for cause.

動悸が止まりません。

The palpitations won't stop.

Negative form of 'tomaru'.

母は動悸がすると言いました。

My mother said she has palpitations.

Quoting someone with 'to iimashita'.

緊張すると、いつも動悸がします。

When I get nervous, I always get palpitations.

Using '~to' for habitual actions.

最近、夜に動悸がすることが多いです。

Recently, it happens often that I get palpitations at night.

Using 'koto ga ooi' for frequency.

動悸が激しいので、休みます。

Because the palpitations are intense, I will rest.

Using 'node' for reason.

コーヒーの飲みすぎで動悸がした。

I had palpitations from drinking too much coffee.

Using 'de' to indicate cause.

医者に動悸について相談しました。

I consulted a doctor about my palpitations.

Using 'ni tsuite' for 'about'.

階段で動悸がするのは、運動不足かな？

Is having palpitations on the stairs due to lack of exercise?

Using 'kana' for a self-question.

急に動悸がして、びっくりしました。

I was surprised because I suddenly had palpitations.

Adverb 'kyū ni' (suddenly).

動悸を抑える薬を飲みました。

I took medicine to suppress palpitations.

Using 'osaeru' (to suppress) to modify 'kusuri'.

更年期障害の症状として、動悸が挙げられます。

Palpitations are cited as a symptom of menopause.

Formal passive 'ageraremasu'.

激しい動悸と共に、めまいも感じた。

Along with intense palpitations, I also felt dizzy.

Using 'to tomo ni' (along with).

ストレスが原因で動悸が起こることがあります。

There are times when palpitations occur due to stress.

Using 'okoru' (to occur) instead of 'suru'.

動悸がひどい時は、無理をしないでください。

When palpitations are severe, please don't overdo it.

Using 'muri wo shinai' (don't overdo).

彼はその知らせを聞いて、激しい動悸を覚えた。

He felt intense palpitations upon hearing that news.

Using 'oboeru' as 'to feel/experience'.

動悸・息切れに効く薬を探しています。

I am looking for medicine that works for palpitations and shortness of breath.

The set phrase 'dōki, ikigire'.

一晩中、不規則な動悸に悩まされた。

I was troubled by irregular palpitations all night long.

Passive 'nayamasareta'.

動悸が落ち着くまで、しばらく横になってください。

Please lie down for a while until the palpitations calm down.

Using 'ochitsuku' (to calm down).

自律神経の乱れからくる動悸には、休息が必要です。

Rest is necessary for palpitations coming from autonomic nerve imbalance.

Using 'kara kuru' (originating from).

その俳優を前にして、彼女は動悸を隠せなかった。

In front of that actor, she couldn't hide her heart racing.

Using 'kakusenakatta' (couldn't hide).

検査の結果、動悸の原因は心臓ではないことがわかった。

As a result of the tests, it was found that the cause of palpitations was not the heart.

Complex sentence with result 'kekka'.

パニック障害の主な症状の一つは、突然の激しい動悸です。

One of the main symptoms of panic disorder is sudden, intense palpitations.

Noun modification with 'omonar'.

動悸が続くようなら、一度精密検査を受けたほうがいい。

If the palpitations continue, you should have a thorough checkup.

Using 'yōnara' (if it seems like).

カフェインの摂取を控えたら、動悸が改善した。

When I cut back on caffeine intake, my palpitations improved.

Using 'hikaetara' (after cutting back).

心因性の動悸は、カウンセリングで和らぐことがある。

Psychogenic palpitations can sometimes be eased through counseling.

Technical term 'shin'inse' (psychogenic).

静かな部屋で一人でいると、自分の動悸がはっきりと聞こえる。

When I'm alone in a quiet room, I can clearly hear my own palpitations.

Using 'hakkiri to' (clearly).

甲状腺機能亢進症の患者は、頻繁に動悸を訴える。

Patients with hyperthyroidism frequently complain of palpitations.

Using 'uttaeru' (to complain of symptoms).

彼の沈黙は、私に言いようのない不安と動悸をもたらした。

His silence brought me unspeakable anxiety and palpitations.

Abstract usage of 'motarasu'.

心電図には異常がないにもかかわらず、動悸が治まらない。

Despite there being no abnormalities on the ECG, the palpitations won't subside.

Using 'ni mo kakawarazu' (despite).

動悸という主観的な症状を、客観的に評価するのは難しい。

It is difficult to objectively evaluate the subjective symptom called palpitations.

Using 'to iu' to define a term.

その小説の主人公は、罪悪感からくる動悸に苛まれていた。

The protagonist of that novel was tormented by palpitations stemming from guilt.

Literary verb 'sainamareteita' (tormented).

過換気症候群に伴う動悸には、ペーパーバッグ法は現在推奨されていない。

For palpitations accompanying hyperventilation syndrome, the paper bag method is currently not recommended.

Technical medical advice structure.

加齢に伴う心機能の低下が、動悸の一因となることもある。

The decline in cardiac function associated with aging can be a contributing factor to palpitations.

Using 'ichiin' (one cause).

未知のウイルスへの恐怖が、社会全体に動悸のような不安を広げた。

The fear of an unknown virus spread a palpitation-like anxiety throughout society.

Metaphorical usage.

心悸亢進と動悸は厳密には同義ではないが、臨床現場では混用されることが多い。

Strictly speaking, 'shinkikōshin' and 'dōki' are not synonymous, but they are often used interchangeably in clinical settings.

Discussing semantic nuances.

漱石の作品において、動悸は近代人の内面的な葛藤を象徴する身体的反応として描かれる。

In Soseki's works, palpitations are depicted as a physical reaction symbolizing the inner conflict of modern people.

High-level literary analysis.

漢方医学では、動悸は「驚悸」や「怔忡」といった概念で分類され、治療法が異なる。

In Kampo medicine, palpitations are classified by concepts such as 'kyōki' and 'seichū,' and treatment methods differ.

Specialized cultural knowledge.

虚血性心疾患の予兆としての動悸を軽視することは、致命的な結果を招きかねない。

Disregarding palpitations as a precursor to ischemic heart disease could lead to fatal consequences.

Using 'kanenai' (could possibly).

精神分析の視点からは、動悸は抑圧された感情が身体言語として表出したものと解釈し得る。

From a psychoanalytic perspective, palpitations can be interpreted as suppressed emotions expressed through body language.

Using 'uru/eru' for possibility.

薬物動態学的に見れば、特定の薬剤の血中濃度上昇が、副作用としての動悸を誘発する。

From a pharmacokinetic standpoint, an increase in the blood concentration of certain drugs induces palpitations as a side effect.

Highly technical adverbial usage.

社会不安障害を抱える者にとって、衆人環視の中での動悸は、耐え難い苦痛である。

For those with social anxiety disorder, palpitations under public scrutiny are an unbearable torment.

Formal four-character compound 'shūjinkanshi'.

動悸という微かな身体の変調が、やがて存亡の危機を知らせる警鐘となる。

The slight bodily disturbance of palpitations eventually becomes an alarm bell signaling a crisis of existence.

Philosophical/Dramatic tone.

Common Collocations

動悸がする

激しい動悸

動悸・息切れ

動悸を感じる

動悸を覚える

動悸が治まる

動悸の原因

不規則な動悸

一時的な動悸

動悸に襲われる

Common Phrases

動悸が止まらない

— The palpitations won't stop. Often used for extreme panic.

怖くて動悸が止まらない。

動悸が激しくなる

— Palpitations becoming more intense.

階段を上ると動悸が激しくなる。

動悸が走る

— A sudden surge of palpitations.

その瞬間、胸に動悸が走った。

動悸を抑える

— To suppress or calm the palpitations.

深呼吸をして動悸を抑える。

動悸の症状

— Symptoms of palpitations.

動悸の症状を詳しく説明する。

ストレス性の動悸

— Stress-induced palpitations.

それはストレス性の動悸ですね。

夜間の動悸

— Palpitations occurring at night.

夜間の動悸に悩んでいる。

食後の動悸

— Palpitations occurring after eating.

食後の動悸について相談する。

更年期と動悸

— Menopause and palpitations.

更年期と動悸の関係を学ぶ。

動悸が落ち着く

— Palpitations settling down.

ようやく動悸が落ち着いてきた。

Often Confused With

動悸 vs 同期 (dōki)

Same pronunciation, but means 'colleague' or 'synchronization'.

動悸 vs 鼓動 (kodō)

Means 'heartbeat' in a neutral/poetic sense, not a symptom.

動悸 vs 土器 (doki)

Same sounds (short o), means 'earthenware/pottery'.

Idioms & Expressions

"胸の早鐘"

— Heart beating like a fast alarm bell (literary).

胸の早鐘を打ち鳴らしながら待つ。

Literary

"心臓が口から飛び出しそう"

— Heart feels like it will jump out of the mouth (extreme nerves).

緊張で心臓が口から飛び出しそうだ。

Informal

"胸が騒ぐ"

— To have a feeling of unease or premonition.

何か悪いことが起きそうで胸が騒ぐ。

Neutral

"手に汗握る"

— To be in breathless suspense (often causes palpitations).

手に汗握る試合展開だ。

Neutral

"生きた心地がしない"

— To feel more dead than alive from fear (physical distress).

あの時は生きた心地がしなかった。

Neutral

"身の毛もよだつ"

— Hair-raising (causes physiological reactions like dōki).

身の毛もよだつような話だ。

Neutral

"肝を冷やす"

— To be chilled to the bone with fear.

今の事故には肝を冷やした。

Neutral

"息を呑む"

— To catch one's breath in surprise/awe.

その美しさに息を呑んだ。

Neutral

"胸がいっぱいになる"

— To be overwhelmed with emotion (heart feels full).

感動で胸がいっぱいになった。

Neutral

"心臓に悪い"

— Bad for the heart (used for jump scares).

そんなに驚かさないで。心臓に悪いよ。

Informal

Easily Confused

動悸 vs 鼓動

Both relate to the heart beating.

Kodō is the physical act of beating (neutral). Dōki is the sensation of an abnormal beat (negative/symptom).

赤ちゃんの鼓動 (baby's heartbeat) vs 階段での動悸 (palpitations on stairs).

動悸 vs 脈拍

Both describe heart rate.

Myakuhaku is the objective pulse rate. Dōki is the subjective feeling of the heart racing.

脈拍を測る (measure pulse) vs 動悸がする (feel palpitations).

動悸 vs ドキドキ

Same meaning.

Doki doki is casual onomatopoeia. Dōki is a formal medical noun.

デートでドキドキ (nervous for a date) vs 病院で動悸の相談 (consulting about palpitations).

動悸 vs 息切れ

Often happen together.

Ikigire is about lungs/breathing. Dōki is about the heart.

息切れがする (out of breath).

動悸 vs 胸騒ぎ

Both are chest sensations.

Munasawagi is a psychological 'bad feeling' or hunch. Dōki is a purely physical heart sensation.

不吉な胸騒ぎ (ominous hunch).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] がします。

動悸がします。

[Noun] が激しいです。

動悸が激しいです。

[Noun] を感じます。

軽い動悸を感じます。

[Cause] によって [Noun] が起こる。

不安によって動悸が起こる。

[Noun] が治まる。

ようやく動悸が治まった。

[Noun] を訴える。

患者が動悸を訴えている。

[Noun] に苛まれる。

激しい動悸に苛まれる。

[Noun] を象徴する。

動悸は心の葛藤を象徴する。

Word Family

Nouns

動悸

鼓動

心拍

脈拍

Verbs

動悸する (rare)

動く

悸える (obsolete)

Adjectives

動悸が激しい

不整脈

心不全

狭心症

パニック障害

更年期

How to Use It

frequency

Common in medical, health, and high-stress descriptions.

Common Mistakes

Using 'doki doki' at the doctor. → Using 'dōki'.
'Doki doki' sounds a bit childish or like you are just excited. 'Dōki' is the medical term.
Saying 'dōki wo suru'. → Saying 'dōki ga suru'.
Palpitations are something that happens to you, so 'ga' is the correct particle.
Confusing 'dōki' with 'kodō' for a normal heart. → Use 'kodō' for normal, 'dōki' for abnormal.
'Dōki' implies discomfort or a symptom.
Shortening the 'ō' sound. → Keeping it long.
'Doki' and 'dōki' are different words in Japanese.
Using 'dōki' for a car engine. → Using 'shindō' (vibration).
'Dōki' is strictly for living beings.

Tips

In the Clinic

When a nurse asks for your symptoms, 'dōki' is the most professional word to use for heart racing.

Noun + Suru

Always remember the particle 'ga'. It's 'dōki GA suru', not 'dōki WO suru'.

Long Vowel

Stretch that 'O'. Dōōō-ki. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.

Watch the Ads

Look for heart medicine ads in Japan to hear exactly how 'dōki' is pronounced and used.

Pairing

Learn it together with 'ikigire' (shortness of breath). They are best friends in Japanese.

Subjective vs Objective

'Dōki' is what you feel. 'Myakuhaku' is what the machine measures.

Heart Radical

The '忄' in '悸' is the heart radical. It tells you the word is about internal feelings or organs.

The Door Key

The Door-Key (Dōki) to your heart is pounding!

Formal Reports

Use 'dōki' in journals or reports when 'doki doki' feels too childish.

Context Clues

If you hear 'dōki' at a company, check if they are talking about a 'colleague' (同期) before assuming they are sick.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'DOor' (dō) being hit by a 'KEY' (ki) over and over—that rhythmic pounding is your 'dōki'.

Visual Association

Visualize a heart that isn't just beating, but 'moving' (動) and 'shaking' (悸) inside a ribcage.

Word Web

Heart Hospital Stress Medicine Anxiety Exercise Coffee Doki Doki

Challenge

Try to use '動悸' instead of 'ドキドキ' the next time you talk about feeling stressed or physically unwell.

Word Origin

Sino-Japanese (Kango). The word is composed of two Kanji characters imported from Middle Chinese.

Original meaning: The movement (動) of throbbing/fear (悸).

Japonic (Sino-Japanese layer).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using it to describe someone else; it might imply they are old or sickly. Stick to describing your own symptoms.

In English, 'palpitations' sounds quite medical. In Japanese, 'dōki' is also medical but slightly more common in daily health talk.

Kyushin commercials (iconic in Japan) Natsume Soseki's 'Kokoro' (describes physical anxiety) Medical dramas like 'Doctor-X'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Hospital

動悸がします
いつからですか？
激しい動悸です
不規則な動悸です

Pharmacy

動悸に効く薬
副作用で動悸がする
漢方薬
飲み合わせ

Stressful Situation

動悸が止まらない
緊張で動悸が...
落ち着こう
深呼吸して

Summer / Heat

熱中症の症状
動悸とめまい
水分補給
涼しい場所

Romance (Joking)

動悸がするほど好き
恋の動悸
心臓に悪い
ドキドキが止まらない

Conversation Starters

"最近、階段を上ると動悸がしませんか？"

"コーヒーをたくさん飲むと、動悸がすることってありますか？"

"緊張した時、どうやって動悸を抑えていますか？"

"動悸・息切れに効く薬、何か知っていますか？"

"パニック障害で動悸が激しくなったことはありますか？"

Journal Prompts

今日はとても緊張して動悸がしました。その時の状況を詳しく書いてください。

健康診断で動悸について聞かれたら、どう答えますか？

ストレスを感じた時、あなたの体（動悸など）にはどんな変化がありますか？

「動悸」と「ドキドキ」の使い分けについて、自分の言葉で説明してください。

もし突然激しい動悸に襲われたら、どう対処しますか？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, yes. It implies an uncomfortable or unusual heartbeat. If your heart is beating fast because you're happy, you'd use 'doki doki' or 'waku waku' instead.

No, that would sound like the baby has a heart problem. Use 'kodō' (鼓動) for a normal heartbeat.

Say 'Dōki ga shimasu' (動悸がします). You can add 'hageshii' (激しい) if they are strong.

'Doki' (short o) is part of 'doki doki' (onomatopoeia) or means 'pottery'. 'Dōki' (long o) means 'palpitations' or 'colleague'.

Yes, but often in medical scenes or when a character is having a panic attack or extreme, painful stress.

It is a noun, so you use it with 'suru' (to do). 'Dōki-suru' is technically possible but 'Dōki ga suru' is much more common.

Only humorously or dramatically. 'Seeing him gives me palpitations' sounds like he's giving you a heart attack.

It's a set phrase meaning 'palpitations and shortness of breath,' common on medicine labels.

It is written as 動悸. The first means 'move', the second means 'throb/fear'.

Yes, because it's a specific medical/formal term that goes beyond basic daily needs.