きりっと

きりっと
adverb, onomatopoeia
sharply; crisply; with a firm, dignified air
1. sharply; crisply; with a firm, dignified air
Describes a manner or appearance that is sharp, alert, and dignified. Conveys a sense of crispness, determination, or refined composure.
きりっとした表情(ひょうじょう)だ。
That's a sharp, dignified expression.
きりっと()えた(しろ)ワインがおいしい。
Crisply chilled white wine is delicious.
彼女(かのじょ)はきりっとした態度(たいど)会議(かいぎ)(のぞ)んだ。
She faced the meeting with a sharp, resolute attitude.

An onomatopoeic adverb evoking sharpness, crispness, and alertness. The core image is of something taut, well-defined, and without looseness.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • きりっとした(かお)/表情(ひょうじょう): sharp, alert face/expression
  • きりっとした態度(たいど): firm, dignified attitude
  • きりっと()えた: crisply chilled (drinks)
  • きりっとした(あじ): crisp, clean taste (often sake or wine)
  • きりっとした目元(めもと): sharp-looking eyes

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • しゃきっと: alert, refreshed — emphasizes being awake and energized; less about dignity
  • びしっと: firmly, strictly — stronger emphasis on strictness or precision; often about discipline
  • ぴしっと: sharply, neatly — similar to びしっと; focuses on neatness and precision

USAGE:
Very commonly used with した to modify nouns. Applied to facial expressions, personal demeanor, and also to the taste or temperature of beverages (especially sake and white wine). Always carries a positive connotation of admirable composure or pleasant sharpness.