How to Properly Write the Onomatopoeia for Laughter in Spanish
In Spanish, the correct way to represent laughter in writing is “ja, ja, ja”, with commas separating each “ja” and always using the letter j.
This format accurately reflects how laughter is spoken—each part with its own stress—whereas writing it as “jajaja” would turn it into a flat word lacking the distinct rhythmic quality of a natural laugh.
The interjection “ja” is used instead of “ha” because, in Spanish, the letter h is silent and does not represent the laugh’s sound, unlike in English or French.
For a genuine laugh, repeating the “ja” at least three times is recommended. Using only one or two can convey irony or mockery rather than a simple laugh.
In informal contexts, especially online chats or social media, people often use variations like “jejeje,” “jijiji,” or “jajaja.” Although widely used, these do not match the formal convention set by the language institution.
In short, when writing a laugh in Spanish with clarity and formality, “ja, ja, ja” is the recommended form.
Source: La Nación (Argentina) July 2025