Spanish word

ejem

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈexem/

Meaning

  • interjectionahem

Example

Disculpa, ejem, quiero decir algo.

Excuse me, ahem, I want to say something.

Illustration for ejem (ahem)

More examples

Bueno, ejem, empecemos la reunión.

Well, ahem, let's start the meeting.

Core concept

Single short throat-clearing sound indicating attention or self-correction.

Common phrases

  • Perdona, ejem

    Sorry, ahem

  • A ver, ejem

    Let's see, ahem

Similar words

ahem: Brief throat-clear that politely prompts attention.
psst: Low hushed hiss that quietly calls someone's attention from nearby.

Definition in Spanish

Representa un carraspeo breve para llamar la atención, indicar que se va a decir algo o corregir lo dicho; frecuente en la conversación y en la escritura coloquial.

Word origin

A written and spoken exclamation formed from an imitative throat-clearing sound that parallels English 'ahem' in use to call attention or correct oneself.

Usage tips

  • Repeated audible 'ejem' often reads as impatience or sarcasm, so writers use it sparingly to convey that tone.

Word lists with this word