Korean word

휴

Pronunciation

Romanizationhyu

Meaning

  • interjectionphew

Example

휴, 너무 피곤해.hyu neo mu pi gon hae

Phew, I'm so tired.

Illustration for 휴 (phew)

More examples

휴, 이제 집에 가도 될 것 같아.hyu i je chi be ka do toel kkeot ka ta

Phew, I think I can go home now.

Core concept

A short breath out that shows strain, release, or sympathy.

Common phrases

  • 휴, 이제 좀 쉬자hyu i je chom swi ja

    Phew, time for a break

  • 휴, 끝나서 다행이야hyu kkeun na seo ta haeng i ya

    Phew, what a relief it's over

  • 휴, 겨우 끝났네hyu kyeo u kkeun nan ne

    Phew, finally finished

Similar words

아휴ahyu: A short sigh that expresses annoyance, weariness, or frustration.
에휴ehyu: A sigh that shows disappointment, discouragement, or giving up.
아이고aigo: A brief exclamation of surprise, worry, pain, or lament.

Definition in Korean

숨을 내쉬는 소리를 본딴 감탄사로, 힘들거나 답답할 때 간단히 쉼이나 연민을 나타낼 때 쓰인다.su meul nae swi neun so ri reul pon ttan kam tan sa ro him deul geo na tap tta pal ttae kan dan hi swi mi na yeon mi neul na ta nael ttae sseu in da

Word origin

The word was formed by imitating a brief exhalation, which made it a natural interjection for several related feelings.

Usage tips

  • In conversation, its tone matters: a relaxed delivery can suggest relief, while a heavier delivery can suggest exhaustion or concern for someone.

Other meanings

  • what a reliefinterjection

Related words

Word lists with this word