Interjections- Definition/ Properties/Types

 

Interjection

A type of part of speech that indicates utterance or emotion through words. In the written English language, they are denoted by words and punctuations. Interjections are actually a concise break or gap in the speech to show emotions or feelings.

It helps the reader to understand what the writer is articulating. We don’t use them in formal writings. Interjections can be used at the beginning, mid, or end of the sentence. 

Types

They are briefly classified into strong interjections and weak interjections, based on the duration of the pause.  

Strong interjections have a long pause and are expressed by mark (!). Weak interjections have a small pause and are expressed by the marks (, or .).



Properties

As a part of speech, it has some amazing features:

  • It has fixed meanings and is dependent on the background.
  • It has no grammatical function to complete the sentences.
  • It can’t be altered.
  • It has no relation to other parts of speech.
  • Interjection can be used in the sentence, also stand alone.

Different Examples of Interjections

  • Interjections Showing Joy

These interjections express pleasure or happiness.

Examples:  

  • Hurrah! We have won the match.
  • Wow! He reached safely.
  • Hurray! My son has passed the test.

  • Interjections for surprise or wonder

The speaker uses interjections when he/she notices wonder or surprise. These include hi! , hello!, Oh! , what!, really!, ah!, wow, etc.

Examples: 

  • Oh! he is bankrupt.
  • What! He had died.

  • Interjections to show pain/sorrow

These interjections are used to show such painful or sorrowful conditions.

These include ouch, ah, alas, oho, etc.

Examples: 

  • Ouch! I am feeling pain in my leg.
  • Alas! Julia is diagnosed with cancer.

  • Interjections with greetings

Examples: 

  • Hi!, hello!, hey!
  • Hi! How are you?
  • Hello! Are you listening?
  • Hey! What’s up?

  • Interjections to show doubt or hesitation

Examples:

  • Hmm, I have doubts about her statement.
  • I think he knows about this location, uh, has he really known?

  • Interjections for farewell

Examples:

  • Bye! We will meet again.
  • Goodbye! I am leaving now.

Grammar