Learning a foreign language includes not just grammar and vocabulary, but also the common phrases and expressions that native speakers use in daily conversation. Estonian is no exception. Among these are exclamations and interjections, which can add color and emotion to your speech. Here are some common exclamations and interjections in Estonian, along with their definitions and examples.
Ohhoo!
This exclamation is used to express surprise or astonishment. It’s akin to the English “Wow!” or “Oh my!”
Ohhoo! See on tõesti muljetavaldav!
Appi!
Equivalent to “Help!” in English, “Appi!” is a cry for assistance in urgent situations.
Appi! Ma ei leia oma võtmeid!
Jess!
This interjection shows joy or approval, similar to the English “Yes!” or “Yay!”
Jess! Ma sooritasin eksami edukalt!
Oi!
“Oi!” communicates a mild surprise or a slight shock, comparable to the English “Oh!” or “Oops!”
Oi! Ma unustasin koju oma telefoni!
Nonii!
This term is used to draw attention or start a conversation, much like “Well then,” “Now,” or “Alright” in English.
Nonii, alustame nüüd koosolekut.
Hähh?
When confused or when asking for clarification, Estonians use “Hähh?” It’s similar to the English “Huh?” or “What?”
Hähh? Ma ei saanud aru, mida sa ütlesid.
Noh!
This interjection is versatile and can be used to show impatience, encouragement, or to prompt someone, akin to “Well,” “Come on,” or “So” in English.
Noh, mida sa veel ootad?
Vau!
To show admiration or amazement, “Vau!” is much like the English “Wow!” or “Whoa!”
Vau! See vaade on hingematvalt ilus!
Kurat!
A strong interjection, “Kurat!” expresses frustration or anger, and translates to something like “Damn!” or “Darn!” in English.
Kurat, ma jälle kaotasin!
Näed!
When pointing out something or when you have proven a point, you can use “Näed!” This is similar to saying “See!” or “There you go!” in English.
Näed, ma ütlesin sulle, et see on lihtne!
Huhh!
This is used to express relief or the completion of a demanding task, akin to the English “Phew!” or “Wow!”
Huhh! Ma lõpetasin lõpuks selle töö.
Using these common exclamations and interjections can make your Estonian sound more natural and expressive. They’re an important part of conversational language and can help you connect better with native speakers. Remember, the key to mastering them is practice and listening to how they are used in context, so don’t hesitate to sprinkle them into your conversations as you learn Estonian!