uh-oh

American  

[uh-oh] / ˈʌˌoʊ /

interjection

1. (used to indicate concern or chagrin at a mildly unfortunate event.)

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Usage

What does uh-oh mean? Uh-oh is an expression used to indicate mild alarm or concern in response to something negative, such as a mistake. It’s typically said right when you realize something is wrong or something bad has happened. It’s sometimes spelled uh oh, without the hyphen. Uh-oh is an interjection, meaning it’s a term used to express emotion, often outside of a sentence. Uh-oh is usually only used in response to situations that are mildly bad or unfortunate, like minor mistakes or setbacks—you wouldn’t say uh-oh in response to a tragedy or something very serious. Uh-oh can also be used in a very informal way as a noun meaning a mistake or something that’s cause for concern, as in That part was an uh-oh, but I thought it looked good so I kept it as it was. This can sound childish (much like calling a mistake a boo-boo) and is often used to be humorous. Example: Uh-oh—looks like I forgot to mail that letter.

Example Sentences

Opal Sandy was treated shortly before her first birthday - and six months on, can hear sounds as soft as a whisper and is starting to talk, saying words such as "Mama", "Dada" and "uh-oh".

From BBC • May 8, 2024

Bacterial leaf spot, or basil shoot blight, is a major uh-oh when it comes to pathogens.

From Salon • May 18, 2022

“I was thinking, uh-oh, I’m in trouble. Now I’m going to have a man in my life.”

From New York Times • Jan. 14, 2022

All these programs have, indeed, had their uh-oh moments over the years, which is what makes their trip to the top of the brackets that much more unique.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 18, 2021

“Why are you smiling like that? Is this the uh-oh part?”

From "A High Five for Glenn Burke" by Phil Bildner