Yes

Definition

Yes is an adverb, interjection, and noun used to express affirmation, agreement, or acceptance. It is one of the most commonly used terms to indicate a positive response.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Interjection
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /jɛs/
• Respelling: yess

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /jɛs/
• Respelling: yess

Etymology

The word "yes" originates from Old English "ġēse," a combination of "ġēa" (yea) meaning "so, truly," and a reduced form of "sīe," meaning "may it be." Over time, "yes" evolved into a standard affirmation in the English language.

Derivatives

• Yeses (noun, plural)
• Yes-man (noun)
• Yesing (verb, informal)
• Yessiree (interjection, informal)
• Yessir (interjection, informal)

Synonyms

• Affirmative
• Indeed
• Agree

Antonyms

• No
• Disagree
• None

Usage

As an interjection, "yes" is commonly used to affirm a statement or answer a question positively. For example, "Yes, I will join you."

As an adverb, it emphasizes agreement or confirmation. For example, "The answer is yes."

As a noun, it refers to an affirmative reply. For example, "We received a lot of yeses for the proposal."

Related Terms

• Yea: An older or more formal term for yes.
• Affirmative: A formal confirmation or agreement.
• Agree: To concur or consent to something.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• Used to express affirmation or agreement: Confirms a statement or question.
  • Example: "She said yes to the invitation."

Interjection

• An exclamation of agreement or affirmation: Indicates consent or approval.
  • Example: "Yes, I understand."

Noun

• An affirmative reply or answer: Refers to a positive response.
  • Example: "We are waiting for her yes before moving forward."