German Conversation · Level 9
87 words
German word
au
Pronunciation
IPA/aʊ̯/
Meaning
- interjectionouch
Example
Das Kind sagt oft au, wenn es hinfällt.
The child often says "ouch" when it falls.
More examples
Beim Heben der Kiste stieß er sich den Zeh und schrie: au.
While lifting the box, he stubbed his toe and shouted, "Ouch."
Core concept
A small vocal signal that marks an immediate stab, bump, or burn.
Common phrases
laut au ausstoßen
utter ouch loudly
kräftig au schreien
shout ouch forcefully
Similar words
autsch: An informal, quick cry of sudden sharp pain.
aua: A short, direct exclamation marking immediate pain.
Definition in German
Wird verwendet, um plötzlich auftretenden Schmerz zu signalisieren; oft einsilbig.
Word origin
The modern form au developed from older Germanic pain cries such as Old High German ouwa and Middle High German ouwe through shortening.
Usage tips
- Au! expresses an immediate reaction, whereas an injury that needs explanation is usually described with a full sentence such as Ich habe mir den Finger geschnitten.