- dotabata noisily (running around), with heavy feet; in a fluster, in a flurry, in a panic
Used informally in conversation or writing to describe chaotic, rushed movement or a flustered state, often in everyday situations.
朝はいつもドタバタしている。
Asa wa itsumo dotabata shite iru.
Mornings are always hectic.
彼女はドタバタと部屋を出ていった。
Kanojo wa dotabata to heya o dete itta.
She left the room noisily, in a fluster.
⚖️ Often confused with 'あわてる' (awateru, to panic), but 'ドタバタ' emphasizes noisy physical commotion or chaotic activity, not just internal panic.
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