INTERJECTIONS

1. Interjections
FROM THE WRITING CENTER
@ THE A.R.C.

2. Introduction to Interjections
An Interjection is a sudden exclamation that expresses differing emotions, and often serves as an
interruption or side note.
For Example: Hooray! I am going to the party tonight.
Another Example: Oh no! I forgot to lock my car!
WOW! I got an A+ on my test!

3. Correct Usage of Interjections
Terrific! This is a way an interjection can be used in a sentence!
As well, not all interjections use exclamation points. Even though many interjections utilize
exclamation marks, sometimes a comma can be used.
Example: Hey, do you think you could run to the store for me?
In the previous example, “Hey” is the interjection, followed by the rest of the sentence.
With a comma, the interjection doesn’t sound as strong as it would with an exclamation mark.

4. Commonly Used Interjections
Aloha, Bah humbug, Cheers, Darn, Eureka, Fiddlesticks
Goodness, Hey, Indeed, Jeepers, Kapish, Lo and behold, My word,
No, Oh my, Presto, Quite, Rats, Shucks, Thanks,
Uh oh, Voila, Wow, Yay, Zoinks.

5. Styles of Writing They’re Used In
Creative writing
Narrative essays
Poetry
Letters to friends/family

6. When NOT to Use Interjections
Interjections should not be used in publications or in most academic papers because there
should be more information than emotion in papers like Research papers, and Analysis Essays.
In the cases you shouldn’t use interjections, other descriptive (less emphasized words) can help
you out.
Incorrect Example in a formal paper: Oh no! The Great Depression lasted from 1929 to 1930!
Instead: Unfortunately, the Great Depression lasted from 1929 to 1930, causing economic
turmoil.

7. In Conclusion…
Interjections show emotion/feelings, can stand alone or be found within a sentence.
The papers that they are most often used in include Narrative or Descriptive essays, Creative
Writing assignments, and even Poetry.
Though not typically used in other styles of academic papers, interjections offer extra emphasis to
the writer’s paper and can affect the tone of the paper.