ach
oh · ah · oh well
A common interjection expressing a range of emotions like surprise, realization, resignation, or mild disappointment. It often softens a statement or reaction, similar to 'oh' or 'ah' in English.
What ach means
- oh — expressing surprise, realization, or a sudden thought
- ah — expressing understanding or acceptance
- oh well — expressing resignation or mild disappointment
Heard in real German videos
Lines where ach was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Ach je, noch nicht.Oh dear, not yet.
- Ach du meine Güte.Oh my goodness.
- Ach ja, viel Spaß.Oh yeah, have fun.
Example sentences
- Ach, das wusste ich nicht.Oh, I didn't know that.
- Ach so, jetzt verstehe ich.Oh, now I understand.
- Ach, das ist schade.Oh, that's a pity.
- Ach, lass mich in Ruhe.Oh, leave me alone.
Common phrases
- ach jaoh yes, oh right (often expressing a sudden memory or agreement)
- ach sooh, I see (expressing understanding)
- ach neinoh no (expressing disappointment or denial)
- ach wasnonsense, no way (expressing disbelief or dismissal)
- ach du liebe Zeitoh my goodness (expressing surprise or shock)
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse 'ach' with 'auch' (also) because of similar spelling. Remember: 'ach' is an interjection, 'auch' means 'also'.
Don’t confuse it with
- auch — 'Auch' means 'also' or 'too', while 'ach' is an interjection expressing emotion.
Questions learners ask
What does 'ach so' mean?
'Ach so' means 'oh, I see' or 'oh, I understand'. It is used when you suddenly understand something.
Is 'ach' formal or informal?
'Ach' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is more common in spoken language.
How do you pronounce 'ach'?
The 'ch' in 'ach' is pronounced like the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch' or German 'Bach'. It is a voiceless velar fricative, not like English 'ch' in 'church'.