What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phew
Example
Phew, I finally finished that difficult project. [phew: interjection]
Example
Phew, that was a close call. [phew: interjection]
Example
Phew, I can't believe I passed the exam. [phew: interjection]
whew
Example
Whew, I'm so tired after running that marathon. [whew: interjection]
Example
Whew, that was a close call. [whew: interjection]
Example
Whew, I can't believe I won the lottery. [whew: interjection]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whew is more commonly used than phew in American English, while phew is more commonly used in British English. However, both words are informal and casual expressions that are not commonly used in formal writing or speech.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between phew and whew?
Neither phew nor whew are considered formal expressions. They are both informal and casual expressions that are typically used in everyday conversation or informal writing.
