N384/219

さ - Interjection

Interjection さ (sentence-initial or standalone)さ + … (continuation of speech)

Meanings

  • All right
  • There we go
  • Now
  • You see
  • Well (I don’t know, let me see)

About this pattern

Explanation

さ is a casual, flexible interjection used to get someone’s attention, to switch topics, or to signal a moment of realization or decision. It often marks a transition: inviting action, prompting agreement, or giving the speaker a moment to think. It’s common in informal conversations among friends or peers, and can convey a sense of liveliness or impatience depending on tone. Because it is casual, avoid using さ with strangers or in formal settings. It can stand alone or begin a clause in casual dialogue, sometimes followed by another clause that reveals intention, a decision, or a reaction.

Learn in context

Example sentences

さ、どうする?

So, what should we do?

さ、行こうか。

All right, shall we go?

さ、これで終わりだ。

There we go; that’s the end of it.

さ、ちょっと待って。

Well, wait a moment.

さ、まあいいか。

Okay then, I suppose that’s fine.