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うわ Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
interjection
yikes ; oops ; wow ; aargh
An exclamation of surprise, shock, dismay, or sudden realization. The exact nuance depends on tone and context; can express anything from mild alarm to genuine fright.
Written forms うわ Usage 39%
Basic kana form; no kanji spelling exists.
うわっ Usage 25%
Abrupt variant with a glottal stop, often for sudden shock.
うわあ Usage 17%
Drawn-out variant for emphasis.
うわー Usage 16%
Lengthened variant expressing stronger emotion.
Similar words あっ あっ is a more general exclamation of surprise or realization, while うわ often carries a stronger sense of dismay or being startled.
わあ わあ is typically a positive exclamation of delight or admiration, whereas うわ leans toward negative surprise or shock.
Etymology A natural exclamation; the exact origin is uncertain, but it is likely a spontaneous vocalization of surprise or distress.
