A Tiny Japanese Sound

Japanese is a language that has many subtle phrases.

Some are metaphors, like the one introduced here today.

Let's try a Japanese quiz!

彼はとても緊張しているようで、（　）の鳴くような声であいさつをした。

He seems very nervous and greeted in a voice so quiet.

Choose the correct word to fit into the missing space ( 　　　).

Select the answer from choices 1～ 4 below.

①　ハエ
②　ゴキブリ
③　蚊（か）
④　猫（ねこ）

答えは・・・The answer is・・・

③　蚊（か）

◆ Today's expression

蚊（か）の鳴（な）くような声（こえ）

This phrase refers to a very small, and faint sound. Since the sound of a mosquito's buzz is typically subtle and faint, this is used to express the smallness or weakness of words or voices.