もじもじ

もじもじ
adverb
fidgeting, squirming (with embarrassment)
1. fidgeting, squirming
Moving restlessly due to embarrassment, shyness, or discomfort; shifting nervously.
恥(は)ずかしくてもじもじしていた。
I was squirming with embarrassment.
子供(こども)はもじもじしながら謝(あやま)った。
The child apologized while fidgeting nervously.
もじもじしていないで、早(はや)く言(い)いなさい。
Stop fidgeting and say it already.
彼(かれ)は告白(こくはく)しようとしてもじもじしていた。
He was fidgeting, trying to confess his feelings.

SOUND SYMBOLISM: The soft も sounds and repetition evoke the restless, hesitant quality of nervous fidgeting.

VERB FORM:

  • もじもじする (to fidget, to squirm)

NUANCE: Typically describes behavior caused by embarrassment, shyness, or reluctance to speak. Common when someone has something to say but is too shy to say it.

CONTEXTS: Often used with children, shy people, or romantic situations (confessions).

SIMILAR WORDS:

Related Words

Contrast: そわそわ
Contrast: おどおど
Antonym: はきはき (brisk, clear-spoken)
general
Added 2026.1.17 17:22 · Revised 2026.6.25 22:35
06000/06274_mojimoji