uh-uh

IPA/ˈʌ ʌ/
IPA/ˈʌ ʌ/

uh-uh — exclamation

1. a sound written in stories or dialog to show that someone is answering "no" in a

1.exclamationA1
Definition

a sound written in stories or dialog to show that someone is answering "no" in a quick, casual way — often used when you do not want to be too direct or formal.

Example

"Are you coming to the party?" "Uh-uh. I have to finish this report by Monday."

used as a one-word negative reply to a question

"Did you take the last cookie?" Mei asked. Her little brother shook his head and said, "Uh-uh."

accompanied by a head-shake gesture

Synonyms
  • no

    the direct, neutral word for a negative answer; "uh-uh" is a casual spoken version of "no"

  • nope

    also informal, but more common in writing; "uh-uh" is specifically a spoken sound

Antonyms
  • uh-huh

    the same sound pattern but with rising intonation, meaning "yes"

  • yeah

    informal affirmative response

Grammar Patterns

used as a one-word answer to a yes/no question or suggestion

Usage Note

Pronounced with a glottal stop between the two syllables (ʔʌ-ʔʌ). The first "uh" is slightly higher in pitch than the second, which falls. This sound is the opposite of "uh-huh" (meaning "yes") and is always informal — do not use it in formal writing or speech.

Common Mistakes

Uh-uh, I don't think that's correct.' (in a formal meeting)
No, I don't think that's correct.
"uh-uh" is only for very casual conversation, not work or academic settings.
Writing it as 'uhuh' or 'uh uh' in a story.
Uh-uh
the hyphen is the standard written form that signals the glottal stop in the middle.