How Interjections Work

An interjection is a word or short phrase that conveys emotion or reaction. It can stand on its own or provide context to a sentence. There are two main ways to use interjections:

As greetings

• Good afternoon, Mr. White!

 

• Dear Jane

 

• Hello, colleagues

 

• Hi, Jennie

For emphasis (These should be used sparingly and only in informal writing.)

• Look out!

                       
                          This interjection can stand on its own.

• I get to keep this car? Sweet!

                         This interjection adds context to a sentence.

• Well, what did you expect?  

                         This interjection gives added emotion (surprise, sarcasm, etc.).