Meaning

Primary

Low Voice

Alternative

Whisper

Word Type

noun, の adjective

Explanation

A small voice is so small that you can hardly hear it. It's a low voice or a whisper.

Reading

こごえ
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The readings for this word are both kun'yomi readings. You've learned both of these readings by now so you should be able to read this on your own. Just watch out because, like in 大声, the こえ becomes ごえ thanks to our old friend rendaku.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 小声でつぶやく

    to mutter in a low voice

    小声ではなす

    to talk in a low voice

    小声で言う

    to say in a low voice

Context Sentences

「ありがとう」と小声で言いました。

"Thank you," I whispered.

男の子は小声で自分の作文をよんだ。

The boy read his composition with a low voice.

先生たちは小声ではなしていた。

The teachers were talking very quietly.

Kanji Composition