ああ

(2 entries)
Alternative writings: 嗚呼, , , 於乎, 於戯, 嗟乎, , あー
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

An exclamation expressing surprise, sorrow, or lament (e.g. “Ah! / Oh! / Alas!”).

InterjectionUsually Kana

Examples

ああ、試験に落ちてしまった。

Ah — I failed the exam.

ああ、もう終わってしまったのか。

Oh — is it already over?

嗚呼、昔の日々が懐かしい。

Ah, I miss the days of old.

2

A brief affirmative response meaning “yes” or “indeed” (similar to “yeah”/“uh-huh”).

InterjectionUsually Kana

Examples

ああ、分かった。今すぐやるよ。

Yeah, got it. I'll do it right away.

「明日行くよ」「ああ、了解」

"I'll go tomorrow." "Okay, got it."

3

An exclamation of frustration or irritation (e.g. “aah!” / “argh!”).

InterjectionUsually Kana

Examples

ああ、また鍵を忘れた!

Argh — I forgot my keys again!

ああっ、そんなこと言わないでください。

Aah! Please don't say that.

4

A call to attract someone's attention (like “hey!” or “yo!”).

InterjectionUsually Kana

Examples

ああ、ちょっと来てくれ。

Hey, come here for a sec.

ああ、そこにある本を取ってください。

Hey — please grab the book over there.

5

A casual expression of agreement or acknowledgement (like “uh-huh” / “yeah yeah” / “right”).

InterjectionUsually Kana

Examples

ああ、そういうことね。

Ah, I see — that's what you mean.

説明を聞いて、ああ、納得した。

After the explanation, yeah — I'm convinced.