Oy gevalt Meaning and Definition
Oy gevalt
Pronunciation
/ɔɪ ɡəˈvɑːlt/
Part of Speech
Interjection
Definition
An expression of surprise, shock, or excitement, often used to convey a strong emotional reaction, particularly in Jewish-American culture.
Examples
- “Oy gevalt, I just saw a bear in the woods!”
- “Oy gevalt, I got the job!”
Synonyms
- Good grief
- Goodness gracious
Antonyms
- Nothing to see here
- No big deal
Additional Information
Oy gevalt is a Yiddish expression that has become a common phrase in American English. It is often used to express surprise or shock, but can also be used to convey excitement or amazement. The phrase is thought to have originated from the Hebrew phrase “oy vey,” which means “woe is me.” Oy gevalt is often used in informal settings, such as in conversation with friends or family members.
In addition to its use as an expression of surprise or shock, oy gevalt can also be used to add emphasis to a statement. For example, “Oy gevalt, I’m so tired today!” or “Oy gevalt, this cake is delicious!”
Oy gevalt is also often used in a humorous or ironic way to express mock surprise or shock. For example, “Oy gevalt, I just saw a squirrel in the park!” or “Oy gevalt, I just ate a whole pizza by myself!”
Etymology
Oy gevalt is a Yiddish expression that originated from the Hebrew phrase “oy vey,” which means “woe is me.” The phrase was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants and has since become a common phrase in American English.
Usage Notes
Oy gevalt is often used in informal settings, such as in conversation with friends or family members. It can be used to express surprise or shock, but can also be used to convey excitement or amazement.
Cultural References
Oy gevalt has been used in a number of cultural references, including in films, television shows, and literature. For example, the phrase was used in the film “The Producers” and in the television show “Seinfeld.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Oy gevalt is often used in idiomatic expressions or phrases, such as “oy gevalt, I’m so tired today!” or “oy gevalt, this cake is delicious!”
Related Words or Phrases
Related words or phrases to oy gevalt include “good grief,” “goodness gracious,” and “holy cow.”
Collocations
Oy gevalt is often used in collocations such as “oy gevalt, I’m so [adjective]!” or “oy gevalt, this [noun] is [adjective]!”
Frequency of Use
Oy gevalt is a relatively common phrase in American English, particularly in informal settings. It is often used in conversation with friends or family members.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of oy gevalt include “oy vey,” “oy vay,” and “oy gevault.”