Aww vs. Awe — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 20, 2024
"Aww" is an exclamation used to express fondness or sympathy, often in response to something cute or touching, while "awe" is a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder, typically inspired by something grand or powerful.
Difference Between Aww and Awe
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Aww" is a vocal expression of emotion, commonly used in reaction to adorable, endearing, or sympathetic situations, like a cute puppy or a sweet gesture. On the other hand, "awe" refers to a profound emotional state, one of being overwhelmed by greatness, beauty, or power, leading to feelings of respect, admiration, or fear.
Aww is an informal expression, predominantly found in casual conversation or written communication to convey warmth or affection. This emotion can be elicited by natural wonders, artistic masterpieces, or any experience that transcends ordinary perception, highlighting the vast difference in the contexts in which "aww" and "awe" are used.
While "aww" is often spontaneous and light-hearted, reflecting immediate, personal reactions, "awe" encompasses a deeper, more reflective emotional process, often leading to a lasting impression on one's psyche. Experiences that inspire awe can alter one's perspective, making them feel connected to something greater than themselves, whereas "aww" moments are more about personal affection and momentary pleasure.
The usage of "aww" is highly colloquial, perfectly suited for social media, text messages, and casual dialogues. In contrast, "awe" finds its place in more formal or reflective discussions about experiences, art, nature, and human achievements that evoke a profound sense of wonder or respect. Despite their phonetic similarity, the contexts and depths of the emotions they convey place "aww" and "awe" at different spectrums of human experience.
Comparison Chart
Definition
An exclamation of fondness or sympathy
A feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder
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Context
Response to cuteness or touching situations
Inspired by grand, powerful, or beautiful experiences
Tone
Informal, affectionate
Formal, reflective, profound
Emotional Depth
Light-hearted, momentary
Deep, lasting, perspective-changing
Usage
Casual conversation, social media
Formal discussions, reflective writing
Compare with Definitions
Aww
Conveying sympathy.
Aww, I'm so sorry you're feeling unwell.
Awe
Overwhelmed by beauty.
The masterpiece left the audience in awe.
Aww
Reaction to cuteness.
Aww, did you see the baby's smile?
Awe
Reverential respect.
I stood in awe of the ancient redwoods.
Aww
Expression of fondness.
Aww, look at that adorable kitten!
Awe
Mixed with fear.
The power of the storm filled me with awe.
Aww
Showing affection.
Aww, you brought me flowers?
Awe
Feeling of wonder.
The awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canyon took my breath away.
Aww
Indicating empathy.
Aww, it's going to be okay.
Awe
Sense of greatness.
Her talent for music commands awe.
Aww
Elongated form of aw
Aww, that's so sad: he hasn't yet learned to ride a bike.
Aww, look at the kitten curled up in her lap!
Awe
Awe is an emotion comparable to wonder but less joyous. On Robert Plutchik's wheel of emotions awe is modeled as a combination of surprise and fear.
Aww
To make an aww sound.
Awe
A feeling of respect or reverence mixed with dread and wonder, often inspired by something majestic or powerful
"There was a fierce purpose in the gale ... that seemed directed at him, and made him hold his breath in awe" (Joseph Conrad).
Awe
The power to inspire dread.
Awe
Dread.
Awe
To fill with awe
Tourists who are awed by the ancient monument.
Awe
A feeling of fear and reverence.
Awe
A feeling of amazement.
Awe
(archaic) Power to inspire awe.
Awe
(transitive) To inspire fear and reverence in.
Awe
(transitive) To control by inspiring dread.
Awe
Dread; great fear mingled with respect.
His frown was full of terror, and his voiceShook the delinquent with such fits of awe.
Awe
The emotion inspired by something dreadful and sublime; an undefined sense of the dreadful and the sublime; reverential fear, or solemn wonder; profound reverence.
There is an awe in mortals' joy,A deep mysterious fear.
To tame the pride of that power which held the Continent in awe.
The solitude of the desert, or the loftiness of the mountain, may fill the mind with awe - the sense of our own littleness in some greater presence or power.
Awe
To strike with fear and reverence; to inspire with awe; to control by inspiring dread.
That same eye whose bend doth awe the world.
His solemn and pathetic exhortation awed and melted the bystanders.
Awe
An overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration;
He stared over the edge with a feeling of awe
Awe
A profound emotion inspired by a deity;
The fear of God
Awe
Inspire awe in;
The famous professor awed the undergraduates
Common Curiosities
Can awe have a positive and negative aspect?
Yes, awe can be both uplifting, when inspired by beauty or greatness, and intimidating, when derived from power or fear.
Is "aww" appropriate for formal communication?
Generally, "aww" is best suited for casual or informal settings.
How can an experience invoke awe?
Experiences that are grand, beautiful, or powerful can invoke awe, making one feel connected to something larger than oneself.
Can animals experience "aww" or "awe"?
While animals can show affection and fear, the complex emotions associated with "aww" and "awe" are considered uniquely human due to their cognitive and emotional depth.
How does culture influence perceptions of "aww" and "awe"?
Cultural backgrounds can shape what individuals find cute or awe-inspiring, influencing their reactions and the significance of these experiences.
What causes a reaction of "aww"?
Cute, touching, or affectionate scenarios typically elicit this response.
Do "aww" moments have a lasting impact?
While "aww" moments are more about immediate affection, they can create fond memories but typically don't alter one's perspective deeply.
Can the same situation trigger both "aww" and "awe"?
It's rare, as "aww" relates to personal affection and "awe" to grandeur or power, but a situation that combines cuteness with majesty could theoretically evoke both.
Why is "awe" important in human experience?
Awe helps us transcend our daily concerns, connecting us to the broader universe and enhancing our sense of belonging and purpose.
How can experiencing awe affect one's health?
Studies suggest that moments of awe can reduce stress, improve well-being, and increase life satisfaction by broadening one's perspective and reducing self-focus.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
