じわじわ
じわじわ
adverb, onomatopoeia
gradually; slowly; steadily
1.
gradually; slowly; steadily
Describes something that happens little by little over time, with a sense of persistence or inevitability. Often implies a slow but inexorable progress.
物価がじわじわと上がっている。
Prices are gradually rising.
じわじわと効いてくる薬だ。
It's a medicine that works gradually.
2.
seeping; oozing; spreading slowly
Describes liquid slowly spreading or seeping, or a sensation gradually spreading through the body.
汗がじわじわと額に滲んできた。
Sweat slowly started to bead on my forehead.
USAGE:
じわじわ(と) + verb
Sense 1 (gradual change):
Emphasizes slow, persistent change that may not be immediately noticeable but accumulates over time:
- じわじわ(と)増える (to increase gradually)
- じわじわ(と)広がる (to spread slowly)
- じわじわ(と)迫る (to close in gradually)
Sense 2 (seeping/spreading):
Describes liquids or sensations spreading slowly:
- じわじわ滲む (to seep out slowly)
- じわじわ熱くなる (to gradually get hot)
NUANCE:
Often carries a sense of something inevitable or relentless—the change may be slow but it's persistent and will eventually have a significant effect.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 徐々に - Gradually (more formal)
- だんだん - Gradually, more and more
- ゆっくり - Slowly (focus on pace)
Related Words
Synonym:
徐々に (gradually (formal))