Oye & Oy Vey

(for Genevie, especially)

A lot of people, not to name names, unknowingly use expressions incorrectly, as exhibited by their incorrect spelling and context. “Oye” and “Oy vey” are perfect examples of this. Being a Spanish language minor and living with an extreme Jewish-enthusiast, the debate over “Oye” has come up a few times. I, myself, am also guilty of misusing these cultural phrases, which sparked the idea for this blog.

So…for clarification, folks:

“Oye” is a Spanish command for “listen” (a derivative of oir “to hear”); most commonly used in expressions when someone is trying to command the attention of surrounding people (ex. a mother to her child, etc.)

“Oy vey” is Yiddish meaning something close to “Oh woe”; it was popularized in Germany and Austria from within their Jewish populations (cognate of Ach weh!, meaning “Oh pain!” in German); it can mean an extreme state of stress, frustration and even excitement.

There are a number of other translations out there (like "oye" meaning British/Irish slang for "hey"), but these are the two most commonly used meanings, though misspelled and used incorrectly at times.

So there you have it. One step closer to being a more culturally conscious, respectful American. Great idea, isn't it?