What are interjections in grammar?

Interjections are words or phrases that express sudden emotion or reaction—oops! Unlike other parts of speech, interjections often stand alone, grammatically independent from the rest of the sentence. They're the exclamations and utterances we use to convey surprise, joy, pain, frustration, or any number of spontaneous feelings.

Think of interjections as the punctuation marks of spoken language. They add color, emphasis, and emotional texture to our communication. While they may seem simple, interjections serve an important function: they allow writers and speakers to convey tone and feeling quickly and effectively.

How to use interjections

There are no rigid rules dictating where or when to use an interjection in writing, but context matters significantly. Interjections appear most naturally in informal settings—text messages, dialogue in fiction, casual emails, and everyday conversation. They help capture the authentic rhythm of how people actually speak.

For formal or business writing, it's typically best to avoid interjections. Academic papers, professional reports, and corporate communications benefit from a more measured, objective tone. That said, even in professional contexts, a well-placed interjection in dialogue or a direct quote can add authenticity.

Punctuation with interjections

The punctuation you use with an interjection depends on the strength of the emotion being expressed. Strong emotions typically call for an exclamation point:

Wow! That's incredible.

Ouch! That really hurt.

Milder interjections can use a comma or period when they're part of a larger sentence:

Well, I suppose that makes sense.

Oh, I didn't realize you were here.

Types of interjections

Volitive interjections express a wish, command, or desire. Examples include words like "shh," "psst," or "ahem" that are used to get someone's attention or quiet them down.

Shh! The baby is sleeping.

Emotive interjections convey feelings and emotions. This is the largest category and includes words like "yay," "ouch," "yikes," and "wow."

Yikes! I forgot about the meeting.

Cognitive interjections indicate mental processes like realization or understanding. Words such as "oh," "aha," and "hmmm" fall into this category.

Aha! Now I understand how it works.

Onomatopoeia can sometimes function as interjections when they're used to express emotion. Words like "boom," "crash," or "whoosh" might work as interjections in the right context.

Common interjections in English

Here's a list of frequently used interjections:

Wow! (surprise, amazement)
Huh? (confusion, questioning)
Oops (minor mistake)
Yikes (alarm, concern)
Bingo (success, correct answer)
Yippee! (excitement, celebration)
Yay! (joy, approval)
Ouch (pain)
OK (agreement, acknowledgment)
Nuts (disappointment, frustration)
Oh (surprise, realization)
Super (approval)
Well (contemplation, transition)
Indeed (agreement)
Hmmm (thinking, consideration)
Oh well (resignation, acceptance)
Great (satisfaction or sarcasm)
Hey (greeting, getting attention)

In Review

Interjections are versatile tools for expressing emotion in writing. While they're best suited for informal contexts, they can add authenticity and personality to dialogue and casual communication. Remember to match your punctuation to the strength of the emotion, and consider your audience before sprinkling interjections throughout your writing.

FAQs

What are interjections?

Interjections are words or phrases that express sudden emotion or reaction. They often stand alone grammatically and include words like "wow," "oops," "hey," and "ouch."

When should you use interjections in writing?

Interjections are best suited for informal writing contexts like dialogue, text messages, and casual communication. Avoid them in formal or business writing unless quoting direct speech.

What punctuation do you use with interjections?

Strong interjections typically use exclamation points (Wow!), while milder ones can use commas or periods when part of a larger sentence (Well, I suppose so).

What are the types of interjections?

The main types include volitive (expressing wishes/commands), emotive (expressing emotions), cognitive (indicating mental processes), and sometimes onomatopoeia functioning as interjections.

Are interjections a part of speech?

Yes, interjections are considered one of the eight traditional parts of speech in English grammar, though they often stand grammatically independent from the rest of the sentence.