Learn English Interjections

What Are Interjections?

Interjections are words used to express strong feeling or sudden emotion. They are included in a sentence (usually at the start) to express a sentiment such as surprise, disgust, joy, excitement, or enthusiasm.

An interjection is not grammatically related to any other part of the sentence.

Examples of interjections (shaded):

• Hey! Get off that floor!
• Oh, that is a surprise.
• Good! Now we can move on.
• Jeepers, that was close.

Yes and No

Introductory expressions such as yes, no, indeed, and well are also classed as interjections.

Examples:

• Indeed, this is not the first time the stand has collapsed.
• Yes, I do intend to cover the bet.
• I'm sure I don't know half the people who come to my house. Indeed, for all I hear, I shouldn't like to. (Oscar Wilde)
• Well, it's 1 a.m. Better go home and spend some quality time with the kids. (Homer Simpson)

Phew!

Some interjections are sounds.

Examples:

• Phew! I am not trying that again.
• Humph! I knew that last week. 
• Mmmm, my compliments to the chef.
• Ah! Don't say you agree with me. When people agree with me, I always feel that I must be wrong. (Oscar Wilde)