All Exclamations
Complete exclamation vocabulary from all CEFR levels in alphabetical order with definitions and example sentences.
ah
Used to express surprise, pleasure or sympathy, or when you disagree with somebody.
Example
Ah, there you are!
all right
Used to check that somebody agrees or understands.
Example
We've got to get up early, all right?
goodbye
Used when you are leaving somebody or when somebody else is leaving.
Example
Goodbye! It was great to meet you.
hello
Used as a greeting when you meet somebody, in an email, when you answer the phone or when you want to attract somebody’s attention.
Example
Hello John, how are you?
hey
Used to attract somebody’s attention or to express interest, surprise or anger.
Example
Hey, can I just ask you something?
hi
Used to say hello.
Example
Hi guys!
no
Used to give a negative reply or statement.
Example
Just say yes or no.
OK
Yes; all right.
Example
‘Shall we go for a walk?’ ‘OK.’
please
Used as a polite way of asking for something or telling somebody to do something.
Example
Please sit down.
thanks
Used to show that you are grateful to somebody for something they have done.
Example
‘How are you?’ ‘Fine, thanks (= thanks for asking).’
welcome
Used as a greeting to tell somebody that you are pleased that they are there.
Example
Welcome home!
well
Used to express surprise, anger or relief.
Example
Well, well—I would never have guessed it!
wow
Used to show that you are very surprised or impressed by somebody/something.
Example
Wow! You look terrific!
yes
Used to answer a question and say that something is correct or true.
Example
‘Is this your car?’ ‘Yes, it is.’