生(い)き生(い)き

生(い)き生(い)き is a reduplicated onomatopoeic word describing vitality, energy, or vividness. It suggests something full of life and naturally vibrant rather than artificially energetic.

Forms

• 生(い)き生(い)きと + verb: used adverbially
• 生(い)き生(い)きとした + noun: used as a modifier
• 生(い)き生(い)きする: to be lively, to come alive

Common collocations

• 生(い)き生(い)きとした表情(ひょうじょう): a lively expression
• 生(い)き生(い)きと暮(く)らす: to live vibrantly
• 生(い)き生(い)きと描(えが)く: to depict vividly
• 目(め)が生(い)き生(い)きしている: one's eyes are sparkling with life

Usage

Applies to people, descriptions, artwork, and writing. Often contrasts with a previous dull or lifeless state — someone who was tired now looks 生(い)き生(い)きしている.