あっ

also: あ

あ

っ

Common wordJLPTN4Freq.FrequencyTop 100

Meanings

Expresses sudden realization, recollection, or mild surprise. Often used when something comes to mind.

Used to get someone's attention, often with a slight sense of urgency or calling out.

ああN4sense 1
あっ is a short, abrupt exclamation of sudden realization or surprise, while ああ is longer and often conveys deeper emotion, understanding, or disappointment.
うわ
あっ is a general exclamation of sudden realization or surprise, while うわ specifically conveys shock, dismay, or being startled with more intensity.
はっ
あっ is the common exclamation of sudden surprise or realization, while はっ conveys a similar shock but with a slightly sharper, gasping quality.
おっ
あっ expresses sudden realization or alarm, while おっ is lighter and can mark mild surprise or a small slip.

Show 3 more

おっと
あっ is a general exclamation of sudden surprise or realization, while おっと specifically marks noticing or recovering from a minor mistake.
ああ
あっ is a short, sudden exclamation of surprise, whereas ああ can express a longer, more drawn-out realization or admiration.
おお
あっ is a short, sharp exclamation for sudden noticing or alarm, while おお is longer and more drawn-out, fitting wonder or hearty agreement.

えっN5sense 1
あっ expresses sudden realization or recollection, whereas えっ expresses surprise or confusion in reaction to unexpected information.

A natural exclamation; the exact origin is uncertain, but it is a basic sound-symbolic interjection common across languages.