Related words やれ is a shorter, older-fashioned interjection with a similar sense of relief or exasperation, while やれやれ is the reduplicated, more emphatic form used commonly in modern speech.
ふう is the sound of a sigh itself (often after exertion or relief), whereas やれやれ verbally expresses the feeling of exasperation or relief that prompts such a sigh.
あーあ leans toward disappointment or resignation at something going wrong, while やれやれ can also express relief when a problem is finally over.
Written forms やれやれ Usage 72%
Kana-only interjection; no kanji spelling is used.
ヤレヤレ Usage 28%
Etymology Reduplication of the interjection やれ , which expresses surprise or relief. The exact origin is uncertain.
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