aua
In German, "ouch" can be expressed as au, aua or autsch.
Meaning: expression of one’s own physical pain (intj)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| aua | |
| au | |
| autsch | /aʊ̯tʃ/ |
These terms are interjections used to express one's own sudden physical pain.
Which one should you use?
The form au is the most common, shortest and most natural way to express sudden physical pain in everyday German. In contrast, aua is often perceived as slightly more childish or is used when speaking to children.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In southern Germany and Austria, the form Ai! is also commonly used.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'ouch' almost exclusively for physical pain, German speakers might use Au as a reaction to hearing something emotionally stinging or unpleasant.
- While aua is an interjection for pain, it is also used as a noun in the phrase das Aua, meaning 'the boo-boo' or a general injury.
- To describe a dull or lasting pain, Germans use the verb weh tun, which literally translates to 'to do woe'.
Examples in context
- Aua! Meine Augen tun weh!Ouch! My eyes hurt.This sentence shows how to use au to express that your eyes hurt.Tatoeba #2743170 by Zaghawa, translation #2093445 by gleki
- Au! Ich habe mich gestochen.Ouch! I've pricked myself!This sentence illustrates using au after pricking yourself.Tatoeba #3064535 by Manfredo, translation #2889355 by AlanF_US
- Au! Eine Biene hat mich gestochen!Ouch!! I've been stung by a bee!!This sentence demonstrates using au after being stung by a bee.Tatoeba #1804921 by al_ex_an_der, translation #278297 by CM
- 10 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian accidentally steps on Sarah's foot.
- SarahAua! Du stehst auf meinem Fuß.Ouch! You are standing on my foot.
- JulianOh nein, Entschuldigung, Sarah!Oh no, sorry, Sarah!
- SarahEs ist okay, Julian. Geht schon wieder.It is okay, Julian. It is getting better.
- JulianIst wirklich alles gut?Is everything really okay?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ouch” translations and entries aua, autsch, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
