How to say "awkwardly" in Japanese

• もにょもにょ
  adverb (with と), suru verb, intransitive verbCovers 'awkwardly' only in the sense of speaking hesitantly or falteringly, in a small voice while struggling for words. A mimetic internet-slang term, and less common, so it is often not the word learners want; reserve it for mumbled, tongue-tied speech.
• グキグキ
  adverb (with と), suru verbCovers 'awkwardly' in the sense of moving jerkily or clumsily, describing unsmooth physical motion. It is a mimetic word and less common, so it is a marginal choice for 'awkwardly' in general; think of it for stiff, jerky movement.

Use 「もにょもにょ」 for awkwardness in speech—hesitating or struggling to get words out—and 「グキグキ」 for jerky, awkward movement; neither is a common everyday choice.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• もにょもにょ(speaking) with hesitation
• ぐきぐきjerkily