Translation guide
An interjection used to express surprise, to tell someone to stop or slow down, or to show admiration. Japanese equivalents vary by context.
Reacting to something unexpected or startling.
Commanding a person or animal to halt or reduce speed.
Reacting to something impressive, beautiful, or grand.
Same as surprise, but drawn out or with rising intonation to show admiration.
わあ、びっくりした。
Whoa, you startled me.
A more masculine or gruff exclamation of surprise or admiration. Often used by men.
おお、それはすごいな。
Whoa, that's impressive.
Expresses mild shock or disbelief, similar to 'huh?' or 'what?'. Can be used for 'whoa' when surprised by information.
えっ、本当？
Whoa, really?
Used to calm or stop a horse. Can be used humorously to tell a person to slow down.
どうどう、落ち着いて。
Whoa, calm down.
Literally 'wait a moment'. The most natural way to tell someone to stop or pause in everyday conversation.
ちょっと待って、速すぎるよ。
Whoa, slow down, you're going too fast.
Borrowed from English 'stop'. Used casually to tell someone to stop immediately.
ストップ！そこは入っちゃダメ。
Whoa! You can't go in there.
わあ、きれいな景色！
Whoa, what a beautiful view!
Means 'amazing' or 'incredible'. Often used as an exclamation by itself.
すごい！こんなの初めて見た。
Whoa! I've never seen anything like this.