DOKKI-RI どっきり
Meanings
The heart palpitates violently in surprise and fear at an unexpected event.
For something to happen suddenly to the point that it feels as though one’s heart might stop.
A stronger form of “Dokiri” or “Dokin”.
Examples
・Suddenly, a person jumped out from the shadows,
and I was so startled that I thought I was going to die.
突然、物陰から人が飛びだしてきて、死ぬかと思うほど、どっきりした。
Dogmatic Opinion
The heart feels like it is pulsing strongly for a moment.
Multiple times is described as “Doki Doki”.
Dokkiri, also refers to a prank to trap celebrities, mainly in television programs.
“Bikkuri” would suffice if it were simply to startle.
“Dokkiri” involve careful preparation on the part of the person making the surprise and a bit of malice (teasing).
Proximate Expression
startled/shocked/jolted with surprise
A prank/practical joke.
