Spanish word

uf

Pronunciation

IPA/uf/

Meaning

  • interjectionsigh

Example

Ya no puedo más, uf.

I can't take it anymore, sigh.

Illustration for uf (sigh)

More examples

¡Uf, menos mal que encontré las llaves!

Phew, thank goodness I found the keys!

Core concept

Short audible exhalation signaling relief, fatigue, annoyance, or resignation.

Common phrases

  • uf, menos mal

    Phew, thank goodness

  • uf, qué difícil

    sigh, how difficult

  • uf, qué lata

    sigh, what a drag

Similar words

uff: Brief forceful exhale expressing sharp irritation or physical tiredness.
puf: Soft small puff of breath expressing quiet resignation or giving up.
uy: Short sharp exhaled sound signaling sudden surprise or a quick pang of pain.

Definition in Spanish

Se usa para expresar alivio, cansancio, molestia o resignación mediante un suspiro breve.

Word origin

Uf is an onomatopoeic interjection that imitates a brief expelled breath and functions in speech as a compact vocal sigh expressing relief, tiredness, irritation, or resignation.

Usage tips

  • A brief, sharp uf usually signals irritation while a longer, breathier uf signals relief or weariness, and it is informal speech rarely used in formal settings.

Other meanings

  • phewinterjection

Word lists with this word