yes
yes — noun
1. an affirmative answer given by voting or by speaking — for instance, a vote cast
an affirmative answer given by voting or by speaking — for instance, a vote cast in support of a proposal, or a spoken reply that agrees to an offer.
The final count showed fifteen yeses and only three noes.
plural form: yeses (or yesses)
Padma gave a firm yes when the committee asked if she would lead the project.
We need at least eight yes votes for the motion to pass.
yes + noun as modifier
After weeks of waiting, the Watanabe family finally received a yes from the university.
The proposal got a resounding yes from every member of the board.
collocation: a resounding yes / a firm yes
- a firm yes
- a clear yes
- a resounding yes
- yes vote
- yes man
- approval
more general; can refer to official permission rather than a single vote or reply
- affirmative
formal; common in military and radio communication contexts
- aye
used specifically in formal voting, especially in the British Parliament
Grammar Patterns
a + yes (singular)
yeses / yesses (plural)
Usage Note
A countable noun, so it needs an article or determiner (a yes, the yeses). The plural can be spelled either yeses or yesses. Common in voting and decision-making contexts to refer to the affirmative position itself, not the person holding it.
Common Mistakes
yes — adverb
1. a word that you say when you are happy to do something that someone asks you, or
a word that you say when you are happy to do something that someone asks you, or when you accept a suggestion or request
Yes, I will help you carry those heavy shopping bags.
yes + clause showing acceptance of request
Marta asked if I wanted more rice, and I said yes.
say yes for accepting an offer
The teacher gave a quick yes when the class asked to leave early.
Yes, you may borrow my bicycle for the afternoon.
yes + permission clause
Aarav nodded and said a quiet yes when the waiter came over.
- say yes
- give a yes
- a quiet yes
- get a yes
- no
the direct opposite; used to refuse or disagree
Grammar Patterns
yes + clause showing acceptance
say yes
Common Mistakes
2. a word that you say to strongly insist that something is true, especially when s
a word that you say to strongly insist that something is true, especially when someone doubts you or when you want to remove any uncertainty
I am not just interested — yes, I am absolutely thrilled about the trip.
yes + clause for emphasis after a statement
The answer is yes: the company is opening a new office in Taipei.
the answer is yes — fixed phrase for strong affirmation
Some friends said the plan would fail, but yes, we finished on time.
Yes, it really happened — I saw the whole thing with my own eyes.
Sahil asked if I was serious, and I told him yes, completely.
told + object + yes for emphasis in reported speech
- the answer is yes
- yes indeed
- say yes emphatically
- indeed
more formal; often placed within the sentence ('It is indeed true') rather than at the start
- absolutely
stronger and more forceful; implies total certainty
- definitely
focuses on removing doubt rather than confirming
- no
used to strongly deny or negate
Grammar Patterns
the answer is yes
yes + clause affirming a statement
Usage Note
In this sense, 'yes' often introduces a clause that restates or strengthens the point made just before, creating a two-part rhetorical structure.
Common Mistakes
3. a word that you say during a conversation to let the other person know that you
a word that you say during a conversation to let the other person know that you are following what they say and are ready for them to continue
Yes, I am listening — please go on with your story.
yes + listening phrase to encourage continuation
Keiko said yes, yes while her grandmother described the old photographs.
repeated 'yes, yes' as backchannel while another person speaks
Anong kept murmuring yes yes as her friend explained the problem.
yes yes (repeated) for ongoing attention
The customer said yes from time to time while the agent spoke.
Yes, go ahead — tell me what happened at the meeting this morning.
- yes, yes
- say yes
- murmur yes
Grammar Patterns
yes (as listening cue)
yes, yes (repeated)
Usage Note
Repeating 'yes, yes' quickly can signal impatience or a wish for the speaker to finish. A single 'yes' with rising intonation is a neutral listening prompt.
Common Mistakes
4. a word that you say when someone makes a negative claim and you want to state th
a word that you say when someone makes a negative claim and you want to state that the opposite is true
You cannot fix it alone he said, and Yara replied Yes I can.
Yes + auxiliary verb in positive form to contradict a negative
Folake thought the shop was closed, but yes, it was open until nine.
The children insisted she was wrong and shouted Yes she is.
It is not too late, my friend said, but yes it is — the train left.
Yes + it is (reversing negative statement)
When someone says you will never succeed, you say yes you will.
- yes + auxiliary (can, do, is, will)
- shout yes
- reply yes
- actually
softer and more explanatory than 'yes', which is direct and forceful
- on the contrary
very formal; used in writing or formal speech
- no
used to agree with a negative statement instead of contradicting it
Grammar Patterns
Yes + subject + auxiliary verb (positive form)
Usage Note
The auxiliary verb after 'yes' flips to the opposite of the negative statement: 'cannot' → 'can', 'is not' → 'is', 'will not' → 'will'. The subject pronoun stays the same.
Common Mistakes
5. a word that you place after a statement so that it becomes a question, asking th
a word that you place after a statement so that it becomes a question, asking the listener whether they share your view or whether you have understood correctly
So you will meet us at the bus stop at seven, yes?
statement + yes? as a confirmation tag
That was the third question on the test, yes? I want to be sure.
You have already finished the report, yes? The boss needs it now.
Mizuki asked, The train leaves at ten, yes? before buying the tickets.
yes? at end of reported question
We are meeting at the usual café tomorrow morning, yes?
- statement + yes?
- yes? at end
Grammar Patterns
statement + yes?
Usage Note
This tag use is more common in British than American English. American speakers typically use 'right?' in the same position. Do not confuse this with the tag question 'isn't it? / aren't you?', which changes form by person and tense.
Common Mistakes
yes — exclamation
1. said when someone asks whether a fact or statement is accurate, and you confirm
said when someone asks whether a fact or statement is accurate, and you confirm that it is
"Is this the bus that goes to the airport?" "Yes, it arrives at Terminal One."
confirming factual information in reply to a question
The teacher asked whether five plus three equals eight, and all the children shouted yes.
When asked if I was on the list, I said yes and showed my passport.
Mira asked if the shop was still open, and Hoa said yes.
- no
the standard negative answer to a question
Common Mistakes
2. said when someone states an opinion and you indicate that you hold the same view
said when someone states an opinion and you indicate that you hold the same view
When Layla said the movie was too long, Andrew nodded and said yes.
agreeing with someone's stated opinion
My colleague suggested a Thai restaurant, and everyone at the table said yes.
"Traffic has gotten worse." "Yes, it takes me twice as long now."
The committee asked if we should postpone the meeting, and all five members voted yes.
Hei said the homework was far too difficult, and several classmates said yes in agreement.
- no
used to politely express a differing opinion
Common Mistakes
3. said when someone claims something is not true or did not happen, and you firmly
said when someone claims something is not true or did not happen, and you firmly state that it is or did
"You never help!" "Yes, I do — I washed the dishes last night."
contradicting a negative statement with evidence
The tracking system showed yes, the package was delivered yesterday.
"That restaurant is closed on Mondays." "Yes, it is — I ate there last week."
"You didn't lock the door." "Yes, I did! I checked twice before we left."
Usage Note
In this sense, 'yes' is typically stressed when spoken — said with a stronger, higher pitch than usual — to emphasise the contradiction.
Common Mistakes
4. said when someone asks if they may do something and you allow them to
said when someone asks if they may do something and you allow them to
My son asked to go to a friend's house, and I said yes.
giving permission with a condition attached
The librarian said yes, each student could borrow three books.
"May I leave a few minutes early?" the student asked. The teacher said yes.
The manager said yes to my request for a day off next Wednesday.
When the children asked to play outside, Yumi said yes.
Common Mistakes
5. said when someone invites you somewhere or offers you something and you want to
said when someone invites you somewhere or offers you something and you want to accept
When my neighbour offered me a ride, I said yes and thanked her.
accepting an offer of help
"Would you like another cup of coffee?" "Yes, please — that would be lovely."
The company offered Ezra a job, and he said yes without hesitating.
"Do you want to join us for dinner?" "Yes, I would love to come."
Meera invited Ingrid for the summer, and Ingrid said yes right away.
- sure
informal; sounds enthusiastic
- I'd love to
polite and warm; common for social invitations
- OK
neutral; slightly less enthusiastic than 'yes'
Usage Note
Often followed by 'please' when accepting an offer of food, drink, or a service: 'Yes, please.' This is more polite than a plain 'yes.'
Common Mistakes
6. said when you are ready to hear what someone needs, especially in a service or r
said when you are ready to hear what someone needs, especially in a service or reception setting, prompting them to speak
The shop assistant looked at me and said, "Yes? Can I help you?"
prompting a customer to state their business
The secretary looked up and said, "Yes? How can I help you?"
"Yes?" the doctor asked, waiting for the patient to speak.
The shop owner said, "Yes, what can I do for you?"
- can I help you
a full-phrase alternative that leaves no ambiguity
- how can I help you
polite and explicit; commonly used in customer service
Usage Note
Common in service and retail settings. When spoken, this sense has a rising intonation, like a question, to signal that the speaker is waiting for the other person to state their purpose.
Common Mistakes
7. said when someone says your name or calls out to you, to show that you have hear
said when someone says your name or calls out to you, to show that you have heard them and are ready to respond or ask what they need.
His mother called from the kitchen, and Eli answered, 'Yes, I'll be right there.'
responding to a name call + statement of action
The nurse called 'Ritu Sharma?' and Ritu replied, 'Yes, that's me.'
answering to one's name in a formal setting
Someone shouted from behind. Tuan turned and said, 'Yes? Can I help you?'
'Dad, are you in your study?' 'Yes, come on in,' he replied.
Usage Note
This sense often rises in pitch at the end of the word, sounding like a question ('Yes?'), to show you are waiting for the caller to continue.
Common Mistakes
8. said when something you had forgotten suddenly comes back to mind, or when you s
said when something you had forgotten suddenly comes back to mind, or when you suddenly understand something that was not clear before.
'Oh yes, now I remember — the meeting is at three, not two,' said Yara.
oh yes + now I remember for sudden recall
Rin struggled with the puzzle, then tapped the table. 'Yes! That's how it fits!'
Christopher wrinkled his forehead, then smiled. 'Yes! You taught me to swim.'
Folake paused mid-sentence, then laughed. 'Yes, I see what you mean now.'
Usage Note
Almost always begins with 'Oh' or 'Ah' in speech ('Oh yes!', 'Ah yes!'). The exclamation is drawn out slightly to mimic the feeling of a memory surfacing.
Common Mistakes
9. said with a rising or steady tone to let someone know you are listening and want
said with a rising or steady tone to let someone know you are listening and want them to keep talking about what they have started.
Yuki paused her story, and Rodrigo nodded. 'Yes? What happened next?'
rising tone yes? to encourage continuation
'So I told the manager the truth about the mistake...' 'Yes?' said Beatrix, leaning in.
The old man spoke slowly, and his grandson kept saying, 'Yes, yes, go on, Grandpa.'
Élise paused to check. Théo said 'Yes,' so she went on.
- stop
commands the speaker to halt rather than continue
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 6 ('asking what someone wants'). Sense 6 opens a conversation ('Yes? How can I help?'), while this sense keeps an existing conversation going. The tone is encouraging, not questioning.
Common Mistakes
10. said in a rising tone when you doubt someone's claim and want to signal that you
said in a rising tone when you doubt someone's claim and want to signal that you find it hard to accept, often playfully or sarcastically.
'He says he can lift two hundred kilos.' 'Oh yes? I'd like to see that.'
oh yes? + rising tone for disbelief
Nala's brother claimed he saw a tiger. 'Yes? Are you sure?' she asked.
'I did homework in five minutes.' 'Yes, right — I don't believe you,' said the teacher.
Rodrigo told friends he never made a mistake. They looked and said, 'Oh yes?'
Usage Note
Often accompanied by a raised eyebrow or a smirk. Can be softened with a laugh if meant playfully, or delivered flatly to express genuine doubt. The phrase 'Oh yes?' is the most common form.
11. said after repeating part of your own statement to stress that you are completel
said after repeating part of your own statement to stress that you are completely serious and certain about it.
The film was a waste of time — yes, a total waste from start to finish.
repeat phrase after 'yes' for strong emphasis
Beatrix insisted, 'I saw the accident with my own eyes, yes, I really did.'
The room was tiny, yes, but the view made up for it.
Folake nodded. 'This is the best choice — yes, the best for the whole team.'
Usage Note
Typically placed after a comma or dash, followed by a repetition of a key word or phrase from the earlier statement. The repeated element shows the speaker's strong conviction.
Common Mistakes
12. said loudly and with strong feeling when you are very happy and excited about so
said loudly and with strong feeling when you are very happy and excited about something good that has happened, especially an achievement or success.
'Yes!' she screamed as she crossed the finish line before anyone else.
loud yes! for victory or achievement
The acceptance email arrived. Nala pumped her fist. 'Yes! I got the job!'
Tuan solved the last problem as the bell rang. 'Yes!' he whispered.
The team cheered at the final score. 'Yes! We won!' they shouted.
Usage Note
This sense is always delivered with an exclamation mark in writing and a distinct rise-fall in pitch in speech — a short, sharp 'YES!' as a burst of joy. It is different from sense 10 (DISBELIEF), which has a questioning rise.
Common Mistakes
13. said in a sharp or irritated tone when someone asks you something that you feel
said in a sharp or irritated tone when someone asks you something that you feel is obvious or has already been answered, making the question feel unnecessary or annoying
Yes, yes, I heard you the first time! Dario snapped at his little brother.
repeated 'yes, yes' for added irritation
Are you coming? Yes, I am — stop asking every minute! Folake called back.
Cyrus let out an impatient Yes, of course before his mother could finish reminding him.
yes, of course + impatience
Do you need help? Valentina said through gritted teeth, Yes, but I can manage.
When the waiter asked again, Hugo gave a sharp Yes, I know what I want.
- yes, yes
- yes, of course
- yes, all right
Grammar Patterns
yes + comma + repeated statement
yes, yes + clause
Usage Note
The meaning depends heavily on tone of voice — a flat, sharp, or drawn-out delivery. Often repeated twice ('Yes, yes…') to increase the impatient effect. Contrast with sense 1 (genuine confirmation) and sense 4 (giving permission).
Common Mistakes
14. a non-committal reply given when you do not have a definite opinion or are not r
a non-committal reply given when you do not have a definite opinion or are not ready to give a straightforward answer, often followed by a pause or a qualifying statement
Did you enjoy the film? Yes… it was okay, I suppose, Daichi said with a shrug.
yes + hesitation (… it was okay, I suppose)
Is this the right bus? Yes — well, I think so, Vivek answered uncertainly.
Asked about the new policy, Élise gave a hesitant Yes, I guess so and changed the subject.
Was the maths exam difficult? Yes and no — some parts were easy, Hannah replied.
yes and no for a mixed response
Would you recommend that restaurant? Christopher paused and said, Yes, if you like spicy food.
- yes and no
- yes, I suppose
- yes, I guess
- yes… well
- yes, but
Grammar Patterns
yes + hesitation (...)
yes + qualifying clause (yes, but... / yes, I suppose...)
Usage Note
Commonly followed by a pause, a filler ('well,' 'I suppose'), or a conditional clause ('yes, if…'). The speaker is avoiding a full commitment. In formal settings a clearer yes/no is expected.
Common Mistakes
yes and no
idiomThis phrase shows that an answer is not completely positive or negative.
When asked if he liked the movie, Tom said yes and no.
Did you enjoy the trip? Yes and no — the weather was bad.
Word family
- yeahadverbA1
- yepadverbA1
- yupadverbA1
- yeaadverbB2
- nayadverbB2
- yes-mannounB2
Synonym discussion
Sense: exclamation/1
Yes is the standard, neutral affirmative in English, suitable for any register from casual conversation to formal writing. Yeah is its informal equivalent — natural among friends but too casual for business emails or academic writing. Yep (and yup) are even more casual than yeah, often used in quick, relaxed exchanges. Sure is a friendly, willing affirmative that can imply enthusiasm ('Sure, I'd love to!'), but it can also sound less committal than yes in some contexts. Of course adds the nuance that the answer is obvious or expected — it can sound polite or, with certain intonation, a little impatient. Aye is regionally restricted to northern England, Scotland, and formal parliamentary voting. Uh-huh is a non-verbal sound used in casual listening or agreement, not appropriate for writing or formal situations. For example: a job candidate would say 'Yes, I have experience with that software' in an interview, but 'Yeah, I know it' to a colleague afterward.
Common collocations
Phrases
- say yes
- yes or no
- the answer is yes
- yes, please
- yes and no
- yes, of course
Etymology
Yes comes from Old English gēse (also spelled gīse), which was a compound of gēa 'yea' (meaning an affirmative) and sīe, the third-person singular subjunctive form of bēon 'to be'. The literal meaning was therefore 'yea, be it so' — a way of saying 'may it be so' or 'so be it.' Over centuries the two-word phrase shortened and merged into the single word yes, which has been in continuous use since before the 12th century.