oh
The English word "oh" is translated into Dutch as oh.
oh is an interjection used to express surprise. Other informal Dutch interjections serve similar purposes: Joh is used to convey surprise, disbelief or to get someone's attention. Zeg is used to express interest or to grab someone's attention. And Nou can express surprise, understanding or impatience.
Meaning: expression of surprise (intj)
Did you know?
- While oh is common, Dutch speakers often use ho as a version of 'oh' or 'hey' specifically to get the attention of someone who is far away or to warn a horse to stop.
- A rising intonation on the word oh can transform the exclamation of surprise into a conversational tool meaning 'Really?' or 'Is that so?'
- If you are texting a friend in Dutch, adding extra vowels to create ohh or ooh is a common way to add a sense of warmth or sympathy to your message.
Examples in context
- Oh, ik snap het.Oh, I got it.This sentence shows how to use oh when expressing understanding.Tatoeba #4598082 by PaulP, translation #2529840 by gleki
- Oh, het spijt me.Oh, I'm sorry.This sentence shows how to use oh when expressing regret.Tatoeba #7427811 by Micsmithel, translation #1579 by CM
- Oh! Een vallende ster!Oh! A shooting star!This sentence shows how to use oh when reacting to a sudden sight.Tatoeba #6991271 by PaulP, translation #6984959 by Hybrid
- Joh, dat meen je niet!Oh, you've got to be kidding!
- Nou, dat had ik niet zien aankomen!Oh, I didn't see that coming!
- 36 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Emma and Levi are looking at a new piece of furniture.
- EmmaKijk, die nieuwe kast is er al!Look, that new cabinet is already here!
- LeviOh, dat is groot!Oh, that is big!
- EmmaJa, hij past precies in de kamer.Yes, it fits perfectly in the room.
- LeviWat een geluk!What a stroke of luck!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
