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.
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.