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REFERENCE

argh

interj.
B1 Intermediate US //ˈɑɹɡ// argh Dialect

interj. a sound you make when you are very frustrated or annoyed. It is a short way to say 'argh' to show you are upset.

interj. an exclamation used to express frustration, annoyance, or mild pain. It is a clipped form of 'argh' and is primarily used in informal spoken contexts.


SIMPLE

Argh, I can't find my keys anywhere.

CONTEXTUAL

Argh, this computer is so slow that I can't finish my work on time.

COMPLEX

He let out a low argh as he realized he had forgotten his wallet at home, effectively ruining his plans for the evening.

Etymology 1

In imitation of a cry. Used since at least the 18th century. Compare ah, of which it could be a lengthened form.

Etymology 2

From Middle English argh, from Old English earg (“inert; weak; timid; cowardly”), from Proto-West Germanic arg, from Proto-Germanic argaz. Cognate with Scots ergh, argh, arch, erf (“timid; reluctant; unwilling”). Doublet of eerie.

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