oh oh
/oː oː/word by word
The German phrase for "uh oh" is oh oh.
The exclamation oh oh is used to express alarm or concern when a person realizes a mistake has been made or a problem has arisen.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Switzerland, you may hear Houpla! or Hoppla! used to express "uh oh".
How do you pronounce it?
/oː oː/
When do people say it?
While oh oh expresses concern, there are several other informal exclamations depending on the nuance. Use Ups! to express surprise or mild disappointment, Oh Mann! to playfully express frustration or surprise or Mist! to vocalize minor setbacks and disappointments.
Did you know?
- While Mist! is used as a mild exclamation for 'uh oh' or 'darn', its literal translation is 'manure'.
- German speakers may use Ach du meine Güte! as a more dramatic or old-fashioned version of oh oh to express shock.
- In German, the exclamation Hoppla! is often used when someone accidentally bumps into something or drops an object, whereas English speakers might only use 'uh oh' for the realization of the mistake itself.
Examples in context
- Oh oh, der Kuchen ist angebrannt.Uh oh, the cake is burnt.
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are in the kitchen.
- FelixOh oh, die Milch ist ausgelaufen.Uh oh, the milk spilled.
- LauraKeine Sorge, Felix, ich helfe dir.Don't worry, Felix, I will help you.
- FelixDas ist aber eine große Pfütze.That is a big puddle, though.
- LauraIch hole schnell ein Tuch.I'll get a cloth quickly.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (oh) and can differ in connected speech.
