äh
/ɛː/
The German word for 'uh' is äh.
äh is a popular informal filler word used to bridge gaps or signal hesitation in speech.
Meaning: space filler or pause during conversation (intj)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some parts of southern Germany and Austria, people use na as an informal filler to express hesitation or uncertainty.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɛː/
Did you know?
- The filler äh is often used by German speakers to soften a critical statement, making a blunt correction sound more tentative and less aggressive.
- In formal political speeches in Germany, the frequent use of äh is often criticized by the press as a sign of nervousness or lack of preparation.
- Sometimes, a silent pause is preferred over äh in professional German settings to maintain an air of 'Sachlichkeit', or objective matter-of-factness.
Examples in context
- Äh, ich weiß nicht so genau, wie ich das erklären soll.Uh, I'm not exactly sure how to explain that.
- Ehm, das ist vielleicht nicht die beste Idee.Uh, maybe that's not the best idea.
- Äh, ich weiß es nicht genau.Uh, I don't know exactly.
- Das ist, äh, ziemlich teuer.That is, uh, quite expensive.
- Ich wollte, äh, fragen, ob du Zeit hast.I wanted, uh, to ask if you have time.
Example conversation
Laura and Felix are looking at a menu in a cafe.
- LauraWas möchtest du bestellen, Felix?What would you like to order, Felix?
- FelixÄh, ich bin mir noch nicht sicher.Uh, I am not sure yet.
- LauraSoll ich dir etwas empfehlen?Should I recommend something to you?
- FelixJa, bitte, das wäre toll.Yes, please, that would be great.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “uh” translations and entries äh, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
