Holy moley Meaning in English
expression
ˈhoʊɫi/ /ˈmoʊli
HOH-lee MOH-lee
hˈəʊli/ /ˈməʊli
HOH-lee MOH-lee
Definition
An informal exclamation used to show surprise, shock, or excitement, similar to expressions like 'wow' or 'oh my goodness.'
Usage & Nuances
Very informal, mostly used in spoken English or humorous writing. Suitable for all ages; considered mild and not offensive. Similar alternatives: 'holy cow', 'oh my gosh', 'wow'. Never use in serious or formal contexts.
Spanish: ¡madre mía! - ¡vaya! - ¡caramba!Portuguese (BR): nossa! - caramba!Portuguese (PT): bolas! - caramba!Chinese (Simplified): 天哪！ - 哎呀！Chinese (Traditional): 天啊！ - 哎呀！Hindi: अरे बाप रे! - हे भगवान!Arabic: يا إلهي! - يا ربي!Bengali: আরে বাবা - আরে ধন্যRussian: ничего себе - вот это даJapanese: びっくりした - うそでしょVietnamese: trời ơi - ôi chaoKorean: 어머나 - 세상에Turkish: vay canına - aman AllahımUrdu: ارے بابا - حیرت ہےIndonesian: ya ampun - astaga
Example Sentences
Holy moley, look at that giant cake!
basic
Holy moley, you finished the puzzle already?
basic
Holy moley, it’s cold outside!
basic
Holy moley, I can’t believe you actually bought that car!
natural
Holy moley, that was the best movie I’ve seen all year.
natural
You scored a perfect 100? Holy moley, that’s impressive!
natural