ay
/ˈʔaj/
The Filipino word for "oh" (as an expression of surprise) is ay.
Ay is a colloquial expression used to indicate surprise, realization or dismay, similar to "Oh" or "Oops."
Meaning: expression of surprise (intj)
Which one should you use?
While ay is a common colloquialism, other expressions exist depending on the intended tone. Uy is an informal expression used to convey surprise, intrigue or to get someone's attention, similar to "Hey," "Oh," or "Wow." Grabe is an informal expression used to convey amazement and shock, meaning "Oh my!" or "Wow." For a formal way to express surprise or disbelief, meaning "Oh, really?" or "Is that so?", use Talaga po?
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Visayas and Mindanao regions, Ayy is an informal expression of surprise or realization with an elongated vowel sound.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʔaj/
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, ay may be related to the Spanish word ay, used to express pain or grief.
- The expression ay is found in many different languages throughout the Philippines, appearing in Hanunoo, Cebuano, and Ibanag.
Examples in context
- Ay naku! Nauubusan tayo ng gasolina.Oh, no! We're running out of gas.This sentence shows how to use ay to express dismay regarding running out of gas.Tatoeba #1658716 by nonong, translation #72150 by CM
- Ay! Pakitingin nga.Oh! Please show it to me.This sentence shows a sudden expression of surprise using ay.Tatoeba #1710699 by nonong, translation #599211 by Dejo
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Jose is telling Patricia that he forgot his wallet at home.
- JoseNaiwan ko ang pitaka ko sa bahay.I left my wallet at home.
- PatriciaAy! Gusto mo bang hiramin ang akin?Oh! Do you want to borrow mine?
- JoseSalamat, Patricia. Malaking tulong ito.Thank you, Patricia. This is a big help.
- PatriciaWalang anuman, Jose.You're welcome, Jose.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “oh” translations and entries ay, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ay, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
