What is yes? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of yes

yesinterjection
vâng, phải, có chứ
/jɛs/

Definition & pronunciation of <b>yes</b>

Where does the word yes come from?

The word "yes" has a fascinating history. Its origins can be traced back to Old English and Germanic languages. The Old English word "gēsah" (yes) is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*jaziz", which was also the source of the Modern German word "ja". In Old English, "gēsah" was used to confirm or agree with something, similar to its modern meaning. The word underwent changes over time, and by Middle English (circa 1100-1500), it had evolved into "yes". In Modern English, "yes" is an affirmative response used to indicate agreement, confirmation, or acceptance. It's a simple yet powerful word that has become ubiquitous in languages around the world. Despite its evolution, the essence of "yes" remains the same – to convey a sense of agreement and concordance.

Vocabulary summary yes

type adverb

meaning yes, yes, yes, ok, yeah, yes, yes

example to say yes or no

example You didn't see him? - yes I did

type noun, plural yeses

meaning yes yes

example to say yes or no

example You didn't see him? - yes I did

Example of vocabulary yesnamespace

used to answer a question and say that something is correct or true

‘Is this your car?’ ‘Yes, it is.’
‘Are you coming? Yes or no?’

used to show that you agree with what has been said

‘I enjoyed her latest novel.’ ‘Yes, me too.’
‘It's an excellent hotel.’ ‘Yes, but (= I don't completely agree) it's too expensive.’
In reply to his question, most of them answered yes.

used to disagree with something negative that somebody has just said

‘I've never met her before.’ ‘Yes, you have.’

used to agree to a request or to give permission

‘Dad, can I borrow the car?’ ‘Yes, but be careful.’
We're hoping that they will say yes to our proposals.

used to accept an offer or invitation

‘Would you like a drink?’ ‘Yes, please/thanks.’

used for asking somebody what they want

Yes? How can I help you?

used for replying politely when somebody calls you

‘Waiter!’ ‘Yes, sir?’

used to show that you have just remembered something

Where did I put the keys? Oh yes—in my pocket!

used to encourage somebody to continue speaking

‘I’m going to Paris this weekend.’ ‘Yes…’

used to show that you do not believe what somebody has said

‘Sorry I'm late—the bus didn't come.’ ‘Oh yes?’

used to emphasize what you have just said

Mrs Smith has just won £2 million—yes!—£2 million!

used to show that you are excited or extremely pleased about something that you have done or something that has happened

‘They've scored another goal.’ ‘Yes!!’

used to show that you are impatient or annoyed about something

‘Hurry up—it's late.’ ‘Yes, yes—I'm coming.’

Synonyms and related words for yes

Idioms of vocabulary yes

yes and no

used when you cannot give a clear answer to a question

‘Are you enjoying it?’ ‘Yes and no.’