# gosh

/ˈɡɑʃ/ (US) · /ɡˈɒʃ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gosh
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. expression of surprise

interjection · CEFR B1 · Informal

you use this when you are surprised or impressed by something.

For teachers: an exclamation used to convey mild surprise, wonder, or shock; it functions as a 'minced oath' to avoid saying 'God'.

- Gosh, I didn't realize it was already ten o'clock.
- Gosh, the sheer scale of the cathedral's interior is far more impressive than the photographs suggested.

Usage: Usually stands alone at the beginning of a sentence followed by a comma.

Teaching tip: This is a very safe, polite word. It sounds slightly old-fashioned or innocent, making it a good choice for learners who want to avoid stronger language.

## Examples

- Gosh, I didn't see you standing there.
- Gosh, that is a lot of money to spend on a single pair of shoes.
- Oh gosh, I had completely forgotten that we were supposed to meet for lunch today, and now I feel terrible for making you wait.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.