Japanese meaning of ニヤニヤ

Reading:
にやにや (niyaniya)

English Translation:

grinning, smirking

Scene & Cultural Context

Cultural Context:


Often used for villains or scheming characters in manga.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

“ニヤニヤする” as the verb.

Trap for English Speakers

Not “near near.”

Example

Basic Example

彼は何かを企んでいるようにニヤニヤしている。

He’s grinning as if he’s up to something.


Applied Example

「ニヤニヤが止まらない!」(秘密がバレそうなシーン)

“I can’t stop smirking!” when someone’s secret is almost found out.