An exclamation of surprise, dismay, or mild shock. Abbreviation of 南無三宝 (なむさんぼう), a Buddhist invocation. Somewhat old-fashioned or dramatic; in modern casual speech, あっ or やばい are more common.
See also: 南無三宝
Oh no, I forgot my wallet!
Good heavens, I'm late again.
Common modern interjection for surprise or realization; 南無三 is more dramatic and old-fashioned.
Standard kanji spelling for this interjection.
Kana spelling is sometimes used, especially in casual writing or when the kanji is considered too heavy.
Abbreviation of 南無三宝 (なむさんぼう), a Buddhist invocation meaning 'homage to the Three Treasures (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha)'. The exact historical path from religious phrase to secular exclamation is uncertain.