ふう
fū
The English phrase "phew" can be expressed in Japanese as ふう (fū).
ふう is an onomatopoeic interjection used to express a sigh of relief, the feeling of being exhausted or surprise.
Meaning: Used to show relief, fatigue, or surprise (intj)
Which one should you use?
The casual version ふー can be used to express relief or relaxation informally and ほっ is an informal expression conveying a sigh of relief or ease.
How do you pronounce it?
fū
Did you know?
- While ふう is a sound of breath, the similar-sounding ほっ is often classified as gitaigo, which are words that describe a state or feeling rather than a sound that can actually be heard.
- In formal Japanese society, letting out a loud ふう of relief can be interpreted as a lack of composure or a sign of weakness.
- The variation ふぅー is frequently used to represent the physical act of blowing on hot food or a burnt finger, rather than an emotional state.
Examples in context
- やれやれ、問題が解決した。Phew, the problem has been resolved.
- ふう、やっと終わった。Fuu, yatto owatta.Phew, it's finally finished.
- ふう、疲れたなあ。Fuu, tsukareta naa.Phew, I'm exhausted.
Example conversation
The two siblings are walking home after a long hike.
- 陽太 Yotaふう、やっと着いたね。Fuu, yatto tsuita ne.Phew, we finally arrived.
- 陽葵 Himari本当に。すごく疲れたよ。Hontou ni. Sugoku tsukareta yo.Really. I'm so tired.
- 陽太 Yota陽葵、大丈夫？Himari, daijoubu?Himari, are you okay?
- 陽葵 Himariうん、少し休みたいだけ。Un, sukoshi yasumitai dake.Yeah, I just want to rest a bit.
