intj
Common
aw
aw
Aw (intj) means used to express disappointment, sympathy, or mild protest. Example: “Aw, I was really hoping it wouldn't rain on the day of the picnic.”
intj
1
Used to express disappointment, sympathy, or mild protest.
"Aw, dad, why can't we go to Legoland?"
"Aw, I was really hoping it wouldn't rain on the day of the picnic."
""Aw, do we really have to leave already?""
""Aw, that's so sweet of you!""
How to use aw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA soft exclamation used for sympathy, disappointment, or "how cute".
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Word forms
- Plural
- aws
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____, I was really hoping it wouldn't rain on the day of the picnic.
Etymology
A natural exclamation rather than a word with a traced history.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “aw” mean?
The word “aw” means used to express disappointment, sympathy, or mild protest. In plain terms, a soft exclamation used for sympathy, disappointment, or "how cute".
How do you pronounce “aw”?
“Aw” is pronounced aw (/ɔː/ in IPA).
How do you use “aw” in a sentence?
Here is “aw” used in a sentence: “"Aw, do we really have to leave already?".”
What part of speech is “aw”?
“Aw” is an intj.
Is “aw” a common word?
“Aw” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'aw' and 'aww'?
'Aw' and 'aww' are closely related, but adding extra letters usually signals stronger or warmer feeling. 'Aw' often marks mild sympathy or disappointment, while 'aww' tends to express affection at something sweet or cute.
What is the difference between 'aw' and 'ow'?
'Aw' expresses disappointment, sympathy, or mild protest, while 'ow' is a reaction to sudden pain. Because they sound different and signal different reactions, they are not interchangeable.
Is 'aw' too informal for writing?
'Aw' is an interjection used mainly in casual speech, texting, and dialogue, so it is out of place in formal or academic writing. In those contexts a phrase such as 'unfortunately' or 'that is a shame' fits better.
What is the difference between 'aw' and 'oh'?
'Oh' is a broad interjection that can show surprise, understanding, or many other reactions, while 'aw' is narrower and signals sympathy, tenderness, or gentle disappointment. 'Aw, that's sweet' shows warmth, whereas 'oh' on its own is more neutral.
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