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わくわくする

B1 verb #3,500 most common 10 min read

わくわくする

wakuwaku suru Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips わくわくする in 30 Seconds

Explanation わくわくする in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'wakuwaku' as a simple word to express happiness about the future. Think of it like a sound effect for your heart. In Japanese, we often use sounds to describe feelings. 'Wakuwaku' sounds like water bubbling up. When you are happy because something good is coming—like a birthday, a present, or a trip—you say 'Wakuwaku shimasu.' You don't need complex grammar. Just remember: 'Wakuwaku' + 'suru' (to do). You can use it when your teacher says there is a party, or when a friend says 'Let's go to the park.' It shows you are happy and ready for fun. Avoid using it if you are sad or scared. It is a 'happy' word only! At this level, just focus on the phrase 'Wakuwaku shimasu' (I am excited) and 'Wakuwaku suru!' (I'm excited! - informal). This will help you sound very friendly and enthusiastic in basic conversations.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'wakuwaku suru' to connect ideas. You might say 'Ashita wa ensoku na node, wakuwaku shite imasu' (Tomorrow is a field trip, so I am excited). Notice the use of 'shite imasu'—this is the progressive form, which is very common for this word. You are also learning that 'wakuwaku' is an onomatopoeia (gitaigo). This means it describes a state. You can use it to describe why you can't sleep or why you are smiling. You should also start to see the difference between 'wakuwaku' and 'tanoshimi.' While 'tanoshimi' is 'I am looking forward to it,' 'wakuwaku' is the physical feeling of that excitement. You can use them together to be more expressive. Try using it in short diary entries or when talking about your hobbies. It's a great way to make your Japanese sound more 'alive' and less like a textbook.

At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance of 'wakuwaku suru' compared to other similar words like 'dokidoki' and 'kōfun suru.' You are expected to use it in more complex sentences, such as 'Kore kara nani ga okoru no ka to omou to, wakuwaku ga tomaranai' (When I think about what's going to happen from now on, I can't stop being excited). You should also recognize it in media, like anime or advertisements. At this level, you can use the causative form 'wakuwaku saseru' (to make someone excited). For example, 'Kono hon wa dokusha o wakuwaku saseru tenkai ga ooi' (This book has many developments that make the reader excited). You should also be comfortable using it as a modifier: 'wakuwaku suru yō na nyūsu' (exciting news). Understanding that 'wakuwaku' implies a 'positive' bubbling energy is key to reaching intermediate fluency.

For B2 learners, 'wakuwaku suru' should be part of a broader vocabulary of emotional descriptors. You should be able to discuss the psychological aspect of 'wakuwaku'—how it represents a uniquely Japanese way of conceptualizing emotion through bodily sensation. You might use it in more formal contexts with 'mune ga odoru' to show variety. You should also be aware of the 'wakuwaku' vs. 'soasowa' distinction (positive excitement vs. restless anticipation). At this level, you can use the word metaphorically or in business contexts to describe the 'excitement' of a new market or a creative venture. You should also be able to explain the etymology (from the verb 'waku' meaning to well up) to others. Your usage should be natural, including the use of particles like 'de' to show the cause: 'Michi no sekai e no kōkishin de wakuwaku shite iru' (I am excited with curiosity for the unknown world).

At the C1 level, you are exploring the literary and cultural depths of 'wakuwaku.' You might encounter it in essays discussing the 'wakuwaku-kan' (the sense of excitement) that defines certain eras of Japanese history or specific cultural phenomena. You should be able to use it with high-level grammar patterns like '~ni tsurete' (as... then...) or '~shidai' (as soon as...). For example, 'Keikaku ga gutaika suru ni tsurete, wakuwaku-kan ga takamatte kita' (As the plan took shape, the sense of excitement heightened). You should also understand its role in 'Cool Japan' marketing and how it is used to project a youthful, energetic image of the country. Your ability to distinguish between 'wakuwaku' and more academic terms like 'kibō ni michiru' (filled with hope) or 'kōfuntal' (excited/aroused state) in writing is essential. You should also be able to use it in nuanced social commentary about the 'loss of wakuwaku' in modern society.

At the C2 level, 'wakuwaku suru' is a word you use with total mastery of its social and psychological implications. You can analyze its use in classical vs. modern literature and how the phonetics of 'wa' and 'ku' contribute to its energetic feel. You might use it in high-level debates about education (e.g., 'wakuwaku suru manabi') or in professional creative direction to describe the desired user experience. You understand its limitations—where it becomes too 'childish' and where it remains 'pure.' You can effortlessly switch between 'wakuwaku,' 'mune ga hazumu,' and 'mune ga takanaru' depending on the exact degree of formality and emotional weight required. Your use of the word is no longer just about 'being excited,' but about evoking a specific, culturally grounded aesthetic of joyous anticipation that resonates with the Japanese psyche.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

わくわくする in 30 Seconds

A positive onomatopoeic verb for excitement and joyful anticipation.
Commonly used for upcoming events, gifts, and happy life changes.
Functions as a 'suru-verb' (wakuwaku suru) or progressive (wakuwaku shite iru).
Derived from the sound of bubbling water, implying joy welling up inside.

The Japanese word わくわくする (wakuwaku suru) is one of the most vibrant and frequently used onomatopoeic expressions (specifically, a gitaigo or state-describing word) in the Japanese language. It captures the essence of positive anticipation, the fluttering of the heart when something wonderful is about to happen, and the bubbling energy of excitement. Unlike the English word 'excited,' which can sometimes be neutral or even describe agitation, wakuwaku is almost exclusively positive, suggesting a sense of joy and hope for the future.

Core Nuance: The feeling of your heart physically reacting to joy, like a spring of water bubbling up from the earth. The sound 'waku' comes from the verb 'waku' (湧く), which means to well up or gush out.
Typical Scenarios: Used when waiting for a concert, starting a new job, going on a first date, or opening a long-awaited package. It is the 'butterflies in the stomach' feeling associated with happiness.

明日から旅行なので、わくわくしています。
(Ashita kara ryokō na node, wakuwaku shite imasu.)
I'm going on a trip starting tomorrow, so I'm excited.

Linguistically, wakuwaku functions as a 'suru-verb.' This means you take the base onomatopoeia and attach the verb 'suru' (to do) to make it active. It can also be used as an adverb with the particle 'to' (wakuwaku to), though the verb form is much more common in daily conversation. The repetition of the sound 'waku' emphasizes the continuous, rhythmic nature of a beating heart or a bubbling spring, creating a vivid mental image for the listener.

Social Context: It is socially acceptable in almost all contexts, from talking to children to speaking with coworkers. However, in very formal business reports, more formal terms like 'kitai ni mune o fukuramaseru' might be preferred.

新しいプロジェクトが始まると思うと、わくわくするね。
(Atarashii purojekuto ga hajimaru to omou to, wakuwaku suru ne.)
Just thinking about the new project starting makes me excited, doesn't it?

In summary, wakuwaku suru is your go-to phrase for positive, happy anticipation. It is the linguistic equivalent of a bright smile and a bounce in your step. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, mastering this word will help you convey your enthusiasm effectively and connect with Japanese people on an emotional level. It reflects a uniquely Japanese way of viewing emotions—not just as abstract concepts, but as physical, audible sensations that 'bubble up' within the body.

Using わくわくする correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility. As a compound verb formed with 'suru,' it follows all the standard conjugation rules of irregular verbs in Japanese. However, because it describes a state of mind, it is frequently used in the -te iru form to indicate an ongoing feeling of excitement. Let's break down the various ways you can integrate this word into your daily speech and writing.

Present/Future Tense: 'Wakuwaku suru' (dictionary form) is often used to state a general fact or a future reaction. For example: 'Kore kara nani ga okoru ka wakuwaku suru' (I get excited thinking about what will happen from here on).
Progressive Form (-te iru): 'Wakuwaku shite iru' is the most common way to say 'I am currently excited.' It emphasizes that the feeling is present and active right now.

プレゼントを開けるときは、いつもわくわくします。
(Purezento o akeru toki wa, itsumo wakuwaku shimasu.)
When I open presents, I always feel excited.

You can also use wakuwaku as an adjective-like modifier by adding the particle 'na' or by using the verb in its attributive form. For instance, 'wakuwaku suru taiken' (an exciting experience). This allows you to describe events, objects, or periods of time as being filled with excitement. It is much more natural than using the English-derived 'ekisaitingu' (exciting), which sounds a bit more Westernized and less grounded in Japanese emotion.

Causative Usage: To say something 'makes' you excited, you can use 'wakuwaku saseru.' Example: 'Kono eiga wa kankyaku o wakuwaku saseru' (This movie makes the audience excited).

子供たちは遠足の前日、わくわくして眠れませんでした。
(Kodomotachi wa ensoku no zenjitsu, wakuwaku shite nemuremasen deshita.)
The children were so excited the day before the field trip that they couldn't sleep.

In conversation, wakuwaku is often used as a standalone exclamation or as a short response. If a friend tells you about an upcoming party, you might simply say 'Wakuwaku da ne!' (How exciting!). This brevity is part of the charm of Japanese onomatopoeia; it conveys a complex emotional state in just a few syllables. Remember that while it is informal in its base form, adding 'shimasu' or 'desu' makes it perfectly polite for most social interactions.

If you spend any time in Japan or consuming Japanese media, you will hear わくわくする everywhere. It is a staple of pop culture, marketing, and daily social interaction. From the catchy titles of children's television programs to the enthusiastic slogans of travel agencies, this word is the heartbeat of Japanese enthusiasm. Let's look at the specific domains where this word thrives.

Advertising and Marketing: Companies use 'wakuwaku' to sell experiences. You'll see it on posters for theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland, on the packaging of mystery-box toys (gashapon), and in commercials for new technology. It promises the consumer a feeling of joy and discovery.
Anime and Manga: Characters often shout 'Wakuwaku!' when they are about to embark on an adventure. A famous modern example is Anya Forger from 'SPY x FAMILY,' whose catchphrase 'Wakuwaku!' has become a viral meme, illustrating her wide-eyed innocence and thrill at her father's secret-agent missions.

「世界中を旅するなんて、考えただけでわくわくする！」
("Sekaiju o tabi suru nante, kangaeta dake de wakuwaku suru!")
"Traveling the whole world... just thinking about it makes me excited!"

In educational settings, teachers use 'wakuwaku' to engage students. A 'wakuwaku jugyō' (exciting lesson) is one that involves hands-on activities or interesting experiments. Similarly, in the workplace, a leader might use the word to motivate their team about a new project, saying 'Wakuwaku suru yō na mirai o tsukurimashō' (Let's create an exciting future together). It bridges the gap between professional goals and personal passion.

Personal Relationships: When friends plan a hangout, one might text 'Wakuwaku!' to show they are looking forward to it. It’s a warm, friendly way to acknowledge shared plans and build mutual anticipation.

箱の中身は何かな？わくわくしながら開けてみた。
(Hako no nakami wa nani kana? Wakuwaku shinagara akete mita.)
I wondered what was inside the box, so I opened it while feeling excited.

Ultimately, wakuwaku suru is a word that transcends age and status. It captures a universal human emotion—the thrill of the unknown and the joy of possibility—in a way that feels uniquely Japanese. Whether it's the quiet excitement of a child with a new book or the grand enthusiasm of a crowd at a stadium, wakuwaku is the linguistic vessel for all things thrilling.

While わくわくする is a relatively straightforward word, English speakers often make subtle mistakes based on the differences between 'excitement' in English and Japanese. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid awkward misunderstandings.

Confusion with 'Dokidoki': This is the most common error. 'Dokidoki' also describes a beating heart, but it is neutral. It can mean nervous, scared, or excited. 'Wakuwaku' is specifically positive. If you are 'dokidoki' before a test, you are nervous; if you are 'wakuwaku,' you are actually looking forward to the test (which is rare!).
Overusing 'Kōfun suru': Learners often use 'kōfun suru' (興奮する) for 'excited.' While technically correct, 'kōfun' sounds much more clinical or even aggressive/sexual in certain contexts. 'Wakuwaku' is the natural choice for everyday happiness and anticipation.

❌ 試合の前にわくわくして怖い。
(Shiai no mae ni wakuwaku shite kowai.)
Correction: Use 'dokidoki' here, as 'wakuwaku' doesn't fit with 'fear.'

Another mistake is the grammatical placement of the word. Since it's a 'suru' verb, you cannot use it like a standard adjective (e.g., *'wakuwaku na hito'). Instead, you must use it as a verb phrase: 'wakuwaku shite iru hito' (a person who is excited). Also, be careful with the particle 'to.' While 'wakuwaku to suru' is grammatically possible, it sounds dated or overly literary. Just 'wakuwaku suru' is the modern standard.

Misusing for Negative Excitement: In English, we say 'The crowd was excited' during a riot. In Japanese, you would never use 'wakuwaku' for a riot. You would use 'sawagu' (to make a noise) or 'kōfun suru.' 'Wakuwaku' is too innocent and happy for such a scene.

❌ 怒りでわくわくする。
(Ikari de wakuwaku suru.)
Correction: Anger doesn't cause 'wakuwaku.' Use 'furueru' (tremble) or 'ikidōru' (be resentful).

Lastly, remember that 'wakuwaku' is an internal state. While you can say 'Kare wa wakuwaku shite iru yō da' (He seems to be excited), it is most accurately used for your own feelings. When describing others, adding 'yō da' (seems like) or 'sō da' (looks like) makes your speech sound more natural and less presumptive about someone else's internal emotions.

Japanese is rich with 'feeling' words. While わくわくする is the most common for positive excitement, there are several alternatives that offer different shades of meaning. Learning these will help you express yourself with more precision and variety.

ドキドキする (Dokidoki suru): As mentioned before, this is the sound of a fast-beating heart. It covers nervousness, romance, and fear. Use this when your heart is pounding, regardless of whether the emotion is 'good' or 'bad.'
楽しみ (Tanoshimi): This means 'looking forward to.' It is more of a mental state than a physical sensation. 'Tanoshimi ni shite imasu' is the standard polite way to tell someone you are looking forward to meeting them.
胸が躍る (Mune ga odoru): Literally 'my heart/chest is dancing.' This is a more poetic, slightly more formal way to say you are very excited. It’s common in literature and song lyrics.

新しい冒険の予感に、胸が躍ります。
(Atarashii bōken no yokan ni, mune ga odorimasu.)
My heart dances at the premonition of a new adventure.

For more intense or specific types of excitement, you might use 'ukiuiki' (buoyant, cheerful) or 'hazumu' (to bounce). 'Kokoro ga hazumu' (my heart bounces) is used when you are in a lighthearted, happy mood. If you are 'excited' in the sense of being restless and unable to sit still, you might use 'soasowa suru.' This describes the fidgety nature of someone waiting for news.

興奮する (Kōfun suru): This is 'to be excited' in a physiological or high-arousal sense. Use it for sports fans at a stadium or when someone is very worked up about a debate. It lacks the 'sweet' or 'happy' nuance of wakuwaku.

観客は劇的な逆転勝利に興奮した。
(Kankyaku wa gekiteki na gyakuten shōri ni kōfun shita.)
The audience was excited by the dramatic come-from-behind victory.

Choosing between these depends on the context and the intensity of the feeling. 'Wakuwaku' remains the most versatile for personal happiness. By contrasting it with 'dokidoki' or 'kōfun,' you can navigate the complex landscape of Japanese emotions with confidence and clarity.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While 'wakuwaku' is positive today, in some historical contexts, it was occasionally used to describe the trembling of fear (like water shaking), but the positive 'joyful' meaning completely took over in modern Japanese. Also, the repetitive 'A-U-A-U' sound pattern is common in Japanese for words describing continuous internal states.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌwækuːˈwækuː ˈsuːruː/

US /ˌwɑkuˈwɑku ˈsuɹu/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. 'Wakuwaku' is generally flat (Heiban), meaning all syllables have a similar pitch, though 'wa' might be slightly lower than 'ku'.

Rhymes With

Zukizuki (throbbing pain) Ukiuki (buoyant) Tokidoki (sometimes) Nikuniku (fleshy/meaty) Pikapika (shiny) Kirakira (sparkling) Fuwa-fuwa (fluffy) Mugumugu (mumbling)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'wa' like 'way'. It should always be 'wah'.
Stressing the 'ku' too much. Keep it light.
Using a hard English 'R' for 'suru'. It should be a light tap like a Spanish 'R' or a 'D' sound.
Elongating the vowels. Japanese vowels are short and clipped.
Confusing the pitch with 'wakewake' (which isn't a word but sounds similar).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Written in Hiragana, it is extremely easy to read for any level.

Writing 1/5

Simple Hiragana repetition. No complex Kanji required.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires the right 'happy' intonation to sound natural.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound; easy to catch in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

する (Suru) うれしい (Ureshii) たのしい (Tanoshii) こころ (Kokoro) まっている (Matte iru)

Learn Next

ドキドキする (Dokidoki suru) ソワソワする (Sowasowa suru) 楽しみ (Tanoshimi) 期待 (Kitai) 感動 (Kandō)

Advanced

胸が躍る (Mune ga odoru) 胸が高鳴る (Mune ga takanaru) 高揚感 (Kōyō-kan) 欣喜雀躍 (Kinki-jakuyaku) 意気揚々 (Iki-yōyō)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs (N+suru)

わくわく + する = わくわくする

State-describing Onomatopoeia (Gitaigo)

わくわく (joy), にこにこ (smiling), ぴかぴか (shiny)

Progressive Aspect (-te iru)

わくわくしています (I am currently excited)

Noun Modification with 'yō na'

わくわくするような体験 (An experience that is like being excited)

Causative form (-saseru)

彼をわくわくさせる (To make him excited)

Examples by Level

わくわくします！

I am excited!

Polite present form.

あした、わくわくするね。

Tomorrow will be exciting, right?

Informal use with sentence-ending particle 'ne'.

プレゼント、わくわく！

A present, I'm so excited!

Noun-like exclamation.

えんそくはわくわくします。

The field trip is exciting.

Topic + 'wa' + excitement.

わくわくして、ねむれません。

I'm so excited I can't sleep.

-te form for cause.

にほんごのクラス、わくわくする。

Japanese class is exciting.

Dictionary form for general state.

わくわくしながら、まちます。

I wait while feeling excited.

Using -nagara (while).

みんな、わくわくしています。

Everyone is excited.

-te iru for current state.

旅行の準備をするのは、わくわくしますね。

Preparing for a trip is exciting, isn't it?

Nominalizing a verb phrase with 'no wa'.

新しい靴を履くと、わくわくした気持ちになります。

When I put on new shoes, I feel excited.

Using 'kimochi ni naru' (become a feeling).

コンサートが始まるまで、ずっとわくわくしていました。

I was excited the whole time until the concert started.

Past progressive form.

わくわくするような映画が見たいです。

I want to watch an exciting movie.

Using 'yō na' to modify a noun.

誕生日の朝は、いつもわくわくして目が覚めます。

On the morning of my birthday, I always wake up excited.

Adverbial use of -te form.

初めてのデートなので、とてもわくわくしています。

It's my first date, so I'm very excited.

Using 'node' for reason.

箱を開ける瞬間が一番わくわくします。

The moment I open the box is the most exciting.

Focusing on a specific 'shunkan' (moment).

先生の話を聞いて、わくわくしてきました。

Listening to the teacher, I started to get excited.

Using -te kuru (to start to/come to be).

未知の体験を想像するだけで、心がわくわくしてきます。

Just imagining unknown experiences makes my heart get excited.

Using 'dake de' (just by).

このプロジェクトには、人をわくわくさせる何かがあります。

There is something about this project that makes people excited.

Causative form 'saseru'.

わくわくが止まらないほど、素晴らしいニュースでした。

It was such wonderful news that I couldn't stop being excited.

Using 'hodo' to show degree.

子供の頃のようなわくわくした気持ちを、今でも覚えています。

I still remember that excited feeling I had as a child.

Attributive use with 'kimochi'.

これからどんな冒険が待っているのか、わくわくするね。

I wonder what kind of adventure is waiting for us; it's exciting.

Embedded question with 'ka'.

彼はわくわくした様子で、新しいアイディアを語った。

He talked about his new idea in an excited manner.

Using 'yōsu de' (in a state of).

期待で胸がわくわくして、じっとしていられませんでした。

My chest was bubbling with anticipation, and I couldn't stay still.

Compound expression with 'kitai' (anticipation).

わくわくする体験を求めて、海外へ行くことにしました。

I decided to go abroad in search of exciting experiences.

Using 'motomete' (seeking).

新製品の発表を前に、会場はわくわくした空気に包まれていた。

Before the new product announcement, the venue was wrapped in an excited atmosphere.

Passive voice 'tsutsumarete ita'.

科学の進歩は、私たちを常にわくわくさせてくれます。

Scientific progress always keeps us excited.

Causative + 'kureru' (gives us the favor of).

わくわく感を持続させるためには、常に新しい挑戦が必要です。

To maintain a sense of excitement, constant new challenges are necessary.

Noun form 'wakuwaku-kan'.

物語の後半、読者はわくわくしながらページをめくることになるだろう。

In the latter half of the story, the reader will likely turn the pages with excitement.

Speculative 'darō'.

その計画を聞いたとき、久々にわくわくするのを感じました。

When I heard that plan, I felt excited for the first time in a while.

Using 'no o kanjiru' (feel that...).

わくわくする未来を築くために、今私たちができることは何でしょうか。

What can we do now to build an exciting future?

Polite question with noun modification.

彼女の瞳は、わくわくした期待に輝いていた。

Her eyes were shining with excited anticipation.

Metaphorical use with 'kagayaku'.

単なる楽しみを超えて、魂がわくわくするような経験をしたい。

I want to have an experience that makes my soul excited, beyond mere fun.

Using 'koete' (transcending).

都市の再開発プロジェクトは、市民にわくわくするような変化をもたらした。

The urban redevelopment project brought about exciting changes for the citizens.

Using 'motarasu' (to bring about).

創造的な仕事には、常にわくわくするような知的刺激が不可欠である。

For creative work, exciting intellectual stimulation is always indispensable.

Formal 'dearu' ending.

その音楽は、聴く者の心にわくわくするようなリズムを刻み込んだ。

The music carved an exciting rhythm into the hearts of the listeners.

Literary 'kizamikonda'.

冒険小説の醍醐味は、主人公と共にわくわくできる点にある。

The real thrill of adventure novels lies in the ability to feel excited along with the protagonist.

Using 'daigomi' (true charm/essence).

わくわくする気持ちを抑えきれず、彼は予定より早く家を出た。

Unable to suppress his excitement, he left home earlier than planned.

Potential negative 'osaekirezu'.

新たな知見が得られるたびに、研究者としての心がわくわくする。

Every time new knowledge is gained, my heart as a researcher gets excited.

Using 'tabi ni' (every time).

伝統と革新が融合する瞬間に、私たちはわくわくを禁じ得ない。

We cannot help but feel excited at the moment when tradition and innovation merge.

Formal 'o kinjienai' (cannot help but).

わくわくするようなヴィジョンを提示することが、リーダーの役割だ。

It is the leader's role to present an exciting vision.

Nominalized 'koto da' for definition.

わくわくするという根源的な感情こそが、人類の進歩を支えてきたと言っても過言ではない。

It is no exaggeration to say that the primal emotion of being excited has supported human progress.

Emphatic 'koso' and 'to itte mo kagon de wa nai'.

日常の些細な出来事にわくわくを見出す感性は、人生を豊かにする。

The sensitivity to find excitement in trivial daily events enriches life.

Using 'miidasu' (to find/detect).

その哲学的考察は、知的好奇心を刺激し、思考をわくわくさせる深みを持っていた。

The philosophical consideration had a depth that stimulated intellectual curiosity and made one's thoughts excited.

Causative structure in an abstract context.

わくわく感の欠如は、現代社会における精神的な閉塞感の一因かもしれない。

The lack of a sense of excitement might be a cause of the spiritual feeling of entrapment in modern society.

Abstract noun 'kekkyō' (lack).

芸術の本質は、鑑賞者の魂をわくわくさせ、既存の価値観を揺さぶる点にある。

The essence of art lies in making the viewer's soul excited and shaking existing values.

Complex parallel structure.

未知なる宇宙への探究心は、永遠に人類をわくわくさせ続けるだろう。

The spirit of inquiry into the unknown universe will likely continue to keep humanity excited forever.

Compound verb '-sase-tsuzukeru'.

わくわくするような高揚感と、静かなる確信が共存する境地に達した。

He reached a state where an exciting sense of elation and quiet conviction coexisted.

High-level 'kyōchi' (spiritual state).

言葉を超えたわくわくを、私たちは共有することができるだろうか。

Can we share an excitement that transcends words?

Abstract noun use.

Common Collocations

わくわくが止まらない

わくわくしながら待つ

わくわくさせる展開

わくわく感

期待でわくわくする

わくわくした表情

わくわくする体験

わくわくを共有する

わくわくして眠れない

心がわくわくする

Common Phrases

わくわくだね！

— How exciting! Used as a response to good news.

「明日ディズニーランドに行くんだ！」「わくわくだね！」

わくわくしてきました

— I'm starting to get excited. Indicates a change in state.

話を聞いていたら、わくわくしてきました。

わくわくが隠せない

— Cannot hide one's excitement. Often used when someone is smiling uncontrollably.

彼はわくわくが隠せない様子だ。

わくわくドキドキ

— A combination of excitement and nervous pounding. Very common set phrase.

わくわくドキドキの初登校。

わくわくする未来

— An exciting future. Often used in speeches or goals.

わくわくする未来を一緒に作りましょう。

わくわくを届ける

— To deliver excitement. Common marketing slogan.

世界中にわくわくを届ける会社です。

わくわくが募る

— Excitement is growing/mounting. More formal/literary.

出発の日が近づき、わくわくが募る。

わくわくの連続

— A series of exciting events. Used to describe a great experience.

旅行中はわくわくの連続でした。

わくわくを忘れない

— Don't forget the excitement. Often used as life advice.

大人になってもわくわくを忘れないで。

わくわくしながら

— While feeling excited. Used to describe an action done with joy.

わくわくしながら手紙を読んだ。

Often Confused With

わくわくする vs ドキドキする

Dokidoki is for any fast heartbeat (fear/nerves/love). Wakuwaku is only for happy anticipation.

わくわくする vs ウキウキする

Ukiuki is about being in a light, buoyant mood. Wakuwaku is more about the thrill of something coming.

わくわくする vs ハラハラする

Harahara is excitement mixed with anxiety or suspense (like watching a tightrope walker). Not purely positive.

Idioms & Expressions

"期待に胸をわくわくさせる"

— To make one's heart flutter with anticipation.

子供たちはプレゼントを前に期待に胸をわくわくさせていた。

Polite/Literary

"わくわくを形にする"

— To turn excitement/inspiration into something tangible (like a product or art).

私たちはクリエイターのわくわくを形にする手伝いをします。

Business/Creative

"わくわくが止まらない"

— To be uncontrollably excited. Literally 'the excitement won't stop.'

明日のライブを思うと、わくわくが止まらないよ！

Informal

"わくわくの種"

— The 'seeds' of excitement; small things that lead to big joy.

日常の中にわくわくの種を探してみよう。

Poetic

"わくわくをエネルギーに変える"

— To turn excitement into energy or motivation.

このわくわくを仕事のエネルギーに変えて頑張ります。

Professional

"わくわくが顔に出る"

— Excitement shows on one's face.

彼は隠しているつもりだが、わくわくが顔に出ている。

Informal

"わくわくを誘う"

— To invite or trigger excitement.

そのポスターは旅へのわくわくを誘うデザインだ。

Formal

"わくわくを抑える"

— To suppress or hold back excitement.

落ち着こうとしたが、わくわくを抑えられなかった。

Neutral

"わくわくを共有する"

— To share excitement with others.

感動とわくわくを共有できる仲間が欲しい。

Neutral

"わくわくの絶頂"

— The peak of excitement.

幕が開く瞬間、わくわくは絶頂に達した。

Literary

Easily Confused

わくわくする vs 興奮する (Kōfun suru)

Both translate to 'be excited.'

Kōfun is biological/high-energy arousal and can be negative or aggressive. Wakuwaku is innocent, happy anticipation.

試合で興奮する (Excited at a match) vs 旅行でわくわくする (Excited for a trip).

わくわくする vs ソワソワする (Sowasowa suru)

Both involve waiting for something.

Sowasowa is about being restless and unable to sit still. Wakuwaku is about the internal feeling of joy.

発表を前にソワソワする (Fidgeting before an announcement).

わくわくする vs 楽しみ (Tanoshimi)

Both mean 'looking forward to.'

Tanoshimi is a noun/adjective describing the mental state. Wakuwaku is a verb describing the physical sensation.

明日が楽しみだ (I'm looking forward to tomorrow).

わくわくする vs 胸が躍る (Mune ga odoru)

Both mean 'heart is jumping with joy.'

Mune ga odoru is literary and poetic. Wakuwaku is common and onomatopoeic.

冒険に胸が躍る (Heart dances at adventure).

わくわくする vs いそいそ (Isoiso)

Both involve positive anticipation.

Isoiso describes the <i>action</i> of doing something cheerfully and quickly. Wakuwaku is the <i>feeling</i>.

いそいそと出かける (To head out cheerfully).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] はわくわくします。

旅行はわくわくします。

[Verb-Dictionary] とわくわくします。

プレゼントを開けるとわくわくします。

[Noun] でわくわくしています。

期待でわくわくしています。

わくわくするような [Noun]

わくわくするような冒険。

わくわくして [Verb-Negative]

わくわくして眠れません。

わくわくを [Verb-Causative]

観客をわくわくさせる。

[Noun] にわくわくを感じる

新しい挑戦にわくわくを感じる。

わくわくを [Verb-Potential-Negative]

わくわくを抑えきれない。

Word Family

Nouns

わくわく感 (Wakuwaku-kan) - A sense/feeling of excitement.

Verbs

わくわくする (Wakuwaku suru) - To be excited.

わくわくさせる (Wakuwaku saseru) - To make someone excited.

Adjectives

わくわくな (Wakuwaku na) - Exciting (used occasionally in informal speech, but rare).

わくわくするような (Wakuwaku suru yō na) - Exciting-like.

湧く (Waku) - To well up; to gush out.

沸く (Waku) - To boil; to get heated up.

楽しみ (Tanoshimi) - Looking forward to.

期待 (Kitai) - Anticipation/Expectation.

高揚 (Kōyō) - Elation/Uplift.

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life and media.

Common Mistakes

Using 'wakuwaku' for negative nervousness. → Use 'dokidoki' or 'kinchō'.
'Wakuwaku' is inherently joyful. Using it for a scary situation sounds like you are a masochist or don't understand the word.
Saying 'wakuwaku hito' for 'an excited person'. → Say 'wakuwaku shite iru hito'.
'Wakuwaku' is a verb/adverb, not a true adjective. It needs 'shite iru' to modify a person.
Overusing 'kōfun suru' in casual settings. → Use 'wakuwaku suru'.
'Kōfun' sounds too intense or scientific for 'I'm excited for the weekend.' It's like saying 'I am in a state of physiological arousal' instead of 'I'm excited.'
Using 'wakuwaku' for 'fun' (while doing the activity). → Use 'tanoshii'.
'Wakuwaku' is about the *anticipation* or the *thrill* of the new. Once you are in the middle of a fun party, you are 'tanoshii'.
Using 'wakuwaku' in a very formal legal or medical report. → Use 'kitai' or 'kōyō'.
Onomatopoeia is generally avoided in highly formal, cold, or academic writing unless discussing the word itself.

Tips

Using with Particles

Remember that the reason for your excitement is marked with 'de' (because of) or 'ni' (at/towards). For example, 'Ryokō DE wakuwaku suru' (Excited because of the trip).

Positive Only

Never use 'wakuwaku' for nervous feelings about an exam or a doctor's visit unless you are strangely happy about them. It is strictly for positive anticipation.

Mirroring Excitement

If a Japanese person tells you something they are excited about, responding with 'Wakuwaku shimasu ne!' is a perfect way to show empathy and build rapport.

The 'W' Sound

Japanese 'w' is less rounded than English 'w'. Don't push your lips out too far. It's a very light, soft sound.

Anime Catchphrases

Watch 'Spy x Family' and listen to Anya. Her 'Wakuwaku!' is a masterclass in how the word conveys pure, innocent thrill.

Hiragana is Key

Always write 'wakuwaku' in Hiragana. Writing it in Katakana (ワクワク) makes it look like a sound effect in a comic book or a loud, mechanical noise.

The 'Suru' Connection

Since it's a suru-verb, you can use all 'suru' forms like 'wakuwaku shitai' (I want to be excited) or 'wakuwaku shinakatta' (I wasn't excited).

Spring Metaphor

Keep the image of a bubbling spring in your mind. It helps you understand why the word feels 'fresh' and 'energetic' to Japanese speakers.

Wakuwaku vs Tanoshimi

If you are 'looking forward' to something but feeling calm, use 'tanoshimi.' If your heart is actually jumping, use 'wakuwaku'.

Causative Usage

Use 'wakuwaku saseru' when you are the one providing the excitement, like a performer or a storyteller.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Wacky' water 'Waku' (well) bubbling up with toys! When the water bubbles (waku-waku), you feel excited!

Visual Association

Imagine a clear spring in a forest. Instead of water, bright colorful emojis and hearts are bubbling out of the ground. That bubbling sound is 'wakuwaku'.

Word Web

Excitement Bubbling Joy Anticipation Future Heartbeat Positive Suru-verb

Challenge

Try to use 'wakuwaku' three times today: once when you eat something good, once when you think about the weekend, and once when you see a friend. Notice how it feels different from just saying 'happy'.

Word Origin

The word 'wakuwaku' is an onomatopoeic expression (gitaigo) that became common in the Edo period. It is believed to be derived from the verb 'waku' (湧く), which means 'to well up' or 'to gush out,' like water from a spring. This metaphorically describes the feeling of joy or excitement bubbling up from within the heart.

Original meaning: The bubbling or gushing of water, later applied to the internal 'gushing' of happy emotions.

Japanese Onomatopoeia (Gitaigo).

Cultural Context

Generally safe. It's a very 'clean' and positive word. However, using it in a very somber or tragic situation would be highly inappropriate and seen as mocking.

English speakers often say 'I'm excited' for everything. In Japanese, you must be careful not to use 'wakuwaku' for negative things like 'I'm excited/nervous for my surgery.' Use 'dokidoki' or 'fuan' instead.

Anya Forger's catchphrase in 'SPY x FAMILY'. The children's show 'Wakuwaku San'. The song 'Waku Waku Saseteyo' by Miho Nakayama.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Travel and Trips

旅行の計画にわくわくする
空港に着くとわくわくする
知らない街を歩くのはわくわくする
わくわくするような旅

Gifts and Surprises

箱を開けるのがわくわくする
プレゼントを選んでいる時がわくわくする
中身は何かなとわくわくする
わくわくしながら待つ

Entertainment (Movies/Books)

わくわくするストーリー
続きが気になってわくわくする
わくわくさせる映画
冒険にわくわくする

New Beginnings

新生活にわくわくしている
新しい仕事にわくわくする
入学式でわくわくする
わくわくする出会い

Events/Parties

パーティーの準備でわくわくする
祭りの音を聞くとわくわくする
わくわくするような週末
みんなでわくわくを共有する

Conversation Starters

"最近、何かわくわくすることはありましたか？ (Have you had anything exciting happen lately?)"

"旅行に行く前、一番わくわくする瞬間はいつですか？ (When is the most exciting moment before going on a trip?)"

"わくわくするような映画を教えてください。 (Please tell me about an exciting movie.)"

"新しいことを始める時、わくわくしますか、それとも緊張しますか？ (When you start something new, do you feel excited or nervous?)"

"子供の頃、何に一番わくわくしていましたか？ (What were you most excited about when you were a child?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、少しでもわくわくした瞬間を書いてください。 (Write about a moment today when you felt even a little bit excited.)

将来、わくわくするような計画はありますか？ (Do you have any exciting plans for the future?)

あなたにとって「わくわくする人生」とは何ですか？ (What does an 'exciting life' mean to you?)

最近見た映画や読んだ本で、一番わくわくした場面は何ですか？ (What was the most exciting scene in a movie you saw or a book you read lately?)

わくわくする気持ちを忘れないために、何をしていますか？ (What do you do to not forget the feeling of excitement?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Only if you are a fan of horror and genuinely 'happy' to be scared. Usually, for a scary movie, you would use 'dokidoki' (heart pounding) or 'kowai' (scary). 'Wakuwaku' implies you are expecting something pleasant.

Not at all. While it is very common for children, adults use it frequently to express genuine enthusiasm. In a business setting, you might use 'wakuwaku shite orimasu' to show passion for a project without sounding immature.

'Wakuwaku suru' is the general action or future reaction ('I will get excited'). 'Wakuwaku shite iru' is the current state ('I am excited right now'). In 90% of cases when talking about your current feelings, 'shite iru' is more natural.

Yes, in informal or slightly 'cute' speech, people often say 'wakuwaku desu!' instead of 'wakuwaku shimasu.' It sounds a bit more like 'I am excitement!'

It comes from the sound of water bubbling up from a spring (waku). It represents the feeling of joy bubbling up inside you.

Yes, you can say 'wakuwaku to matsu' (to wait with excitement). However, the verb form 'wakuwaku shinagara matsu' is much more common in modern Japanese.

No. Onomatopoeia in Japanese are almost always written in Hiragana (for soft/internal feelings) or Katakana (for hard/external sounds). 'Wakuwaku' is usually Hiragana.

You can say 'wakuwaku shinai' (informal) or 'wakuwaku shimasen' (polite). If you want to say you've lost excitement, say 'wakuwaku ga sameta'.

No. 'Wakuwaku' is a very 'pure' word. For sexual excitement, the word is 'kōfun' (興奮), but be careful as that is a very strong word.

The suffix '-kan' means 'feeling' or 'sense.' So 'wakuwaku-kan' is 'the sense of excitement.' It's often used in reviews or marketing: 'Kono gēmu wa wakuwaku-kan ga aru' (This game has a sense of excitement).