ah
The German phrase ah corresponds to the English "ahhh".
In German, ah is used informally to express a reaction to something surprising or unexpected.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'ahhh' to express relaxation, Germans might use a similar sounding aah to express a sudden, sharp realization, often followed by jetzt verstehe ich (now I understand).
- A very short, clipped ah can be used by Germans to signal that they have heard you and want you to continue speaking without further interruption.
- While ah expresses surprise, the similar-sounding ach is often used to express regret, frustration or longing.
Examples in context
- Sag „Ah!“Say "ahhh!"Tatoeba #4806333 by Raringo, translation #7681779 by ouitroisheures19
- Ah, das habe ich nicht erwartet! Das ist ja fantastisch!Ah, I didn't expect that! That's fantastic!
- Ah, jetzt verstehe ich das.Ah, now I understand that.
- Ah, das ist ja toll!Ah, that is great!
Example conversation
Julia and Maximilian are looking at a photo album.
- JuliaAh, schau dir dieses Foto an!Ah, look at this photo!
- MaximilianDas ist wirklich ein schönes Bild.That is really a beautiful picture.
- JuliaAh, ich habe es fast vergessen.Ah, I almost forgot it.
- MaximilianKein Problem, Julia.No problem, Julia.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
