What Is An Interjection? An interjection is a word or phrase used to express disbelief, excitement, or frustration. It can be used as a standalone exclamation or as part of a sentence. Interjections are not considered proper grammar, but they can add emotion and emphasis to writing. This lesson includes a list of common interjections in English with definitions and example sentences.
Classification of Interjections
Interjections can be classified as follows:
1. Words that express positive emotions such as joy, love, or excitement: Wow! Awesome! Yay!
2. Words that express negative emotions such as anger, disappointment, or frustration: Ugh! Darn it! Boo!
3. Words that express a strong reaction or feeling: Oh! Ouch! Yikes! Eek!
4. Words that are used to get someone’s attention: Hey! Psst! Excuse me!
5. Words that are used to fill a pause or make a transition: Well, um, ok then.
Some Other Interjections
- Wow! Interjections can add excitement to writing.
- Darn it! Interjections can express frustration.
- Hey! Interjections can get someone’s attention.
- Well, um, ok then. Interjections can be used to make a transition.
List of Interjection, Meaning, and Examples
1. Ah!
Meaning: An expression of surprise or joy
Example: Ah, I didn’t know that.
2. Alas!
Meaning: An expression of sadness
Example: Alas, she was my best friend.
3. Aha!
Meaning: An expression of understanding or realization
Example: Aha, I see now.
4. Bravo!
Meaning: An expression of approval or admiration
Example: Bravo, you did a great job!
5. Damn!
Meaning: An expression of anger, frustration, or disappointment
Example: Damn, this is going to take forever!
6. Dear me!
Meaning: An expression of pity or concern
Example: Dear me, that’s awful.
7. Eh?
Meaning: A question seeking confirmation or repetition
Example: Did you say your name was Sarah? Eh?
8. Eek!
Meaning: An expression of fear or surprise
Example: Eek, a spider!
9. Fantastic!
Meaning: An expression of excitement or approval
Example: This new restaurant is fantastic!
10. Geez!
Meaning: An expression of frustration or annoyance
Example: Geez, I can’t find my keys anywhere.
11. Good grief!
Meaning: An expression of disbelief or frustration
Example: Good grief, this traffic is terrible.
12. Hmm..
Meaning: A sound used to express thoughtful consideration
Example: Hmm! I don’t know.
13. Ooh!
Meaning: An expression of pleasure or interest
Example: Ooh, what a pretty dress!
14. Oh!
Meaning: An expression of surprise, joy, or pain
Example: Oh, that feels so good!
15. Oops!
Meaning: An expression of regret or embarrassment
Example: Oops, I forgot to turn off the oven.
16. Phew!
Meaning: An expression of relief
Example: Phew, I’m glad that’s over.
17. Rah! Rah! Rah!/Sis boom bah!/All hail!/etc.
Meaning: A cheer or battle cry
Example: Rah! Rah! Rah! for the home team!
18. Rats!
Meaning: An expression of frustration or annoyance
Example: Rats, I left my phone at home.
19. Shucks!
Meaning: An expression of disappointment or regret
Example: Shucks, I really wanted to go to that party.
20. Snore…
Meaning: A sound used to show boredom or lack of interest
Example: Snore…I don’t want to go to school today.
