What are Primary Interjections?

Primary Interjections are single words taken NOT from usual words or any class of words, but rather from SOUNDS.

Examples:

  • ew - used to express disgust or nausea
  • ooh - can express amazement, awe, affection, pain, or imitation of a ghost
  • aah - can express amazement, joyful pleasure, sympathy, understanding, or fear (like a scream)
  • argh - expresses annoyance, dismay, embarrassment, or frustration
  • ugh - expresses disgust, annoyance, or extreme dislike
  • hmm - used to demand an answer or to express thinking or pondering
  • grr - expresses strong anger or disappointment
  • brr - can express disgust or aversion or show that one is cold or shaking from coldness
  • shh - used to ask for silence
  • sheesh - expresses exasperation or extreme irritation
  • hoo - expresses the joy of triumph
  • yoohoo - often used to get attention
  • phew - expresses relief from tension, tiredness, or surprise
  • tsk - expresses disapproval or disappointment

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