A1exclamationhigh_frequency_chunk

Yes

UK /["/jes/"]/US /["/jes/"]/

Definition

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

In simple words: A word used to agree or say something is true.

Examples

  • Yes, I would love to join you for dinner.
  • When she asked if I was ready, I replied, 'Yes!'
  • The answer to the question is yes, without a doubt.
  • He nodded and said yes to the proposal.
  • Yes, I understand what you mean.

Usage notes

Used in both spoken and written form to express agreement. More appropriate in casual conversations; may be too informal in some formal settings unless in response to a question.

Grammar pattern

standalone greeting

Memory hint

Think of 'yeah, sure!' – 'yes' is simply a shorter, more formal version.

Collocations

  • resounding
  • simple
  • answer
  • say
  • vote
  • vote
  • with a yes
  • yes to
  • yes or no
  • resounding
  • simple
  • answer
  • say
  • vote
  • vote
  • with a yes
  • yes to
  • yes or no
  • resounding
  • simple
  • answer
  • say
  • vote
  • vote
  • with a yes
  • yes to
  • yes or no
  • resounding
  • simple
  • answer
  • say
  • vote
  • vote
  • with a yes
  • yes to
  • yes or no

Synonyms

  • yeah
  • yup
  • affirmative
  • certainly
  • indeed

Antonyms

  • no

Common mistakes

  • Saying 'yes' when the question is negative, which can confuse meaning.
  • Using 'yes' as a standalone answer in very formal contexts.
  • Confusing 'yes' with 'yeah' for all situations.