ほら

ほら
interjection
look, see, you know, there
informalexpression
1. look, see, there
Used to direct someone's attention to something, often while pointing.
Look, there's a cat over there.
Come on, if you don't get up soon you'll be late.
ほら、見(み)て!虹(にじ)だよ!
Look! It's a rainbow!
See, it's written right here.
Here, try eating this.
2. you know, you see
Used when trying to recall something or when expecting the listener to know what you mean.
You know, the person we met last week, who was it again?
You know, that movie, what was it called again?
You know, I'm talking about him, the tall guy.
You know, the restaurant we went to last year, do you remember?
You know, it's the shop on that corner.
3. see? I told you so
Used when something predicted comes true or to emphasize a point.
See? It's just like I said.
See? I told you it would rain.
See? That's why I told you.
See? It turned out exactly as I said.
See? You fell because you weren't careful.

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Usage

  • ほら見(み)て: "Look at this" (directing attention)
  • ほら、あれ: "You know, that thing" (trying to recall)
  • ほらね: "See? Told you" (vindication)
  • ほら!: "Come on!" (urging action)

Pronunciation

  • Rising: trying to get attention or recall
  • Flat/falling: pointing out or emphasizing

Similar words