yes
47 synonyms and 10 antonyms for yes, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Particle — Used to show agreement, acceptance, or confirmation.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use yes
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English gise, meaning roughly "may it be so" or "certainly" — from the same root as "yea".
Full origin of yes →Frequently asked questions
What does “yes” mean?
The word “yes” means used to show agreement, acceptance, or confirmation. In plain terms, the basic word for agreeing, confirming, or accepting something.
How do you pronounce “yes”?
“Yes” is pronounced yehs (/jɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “yes” in a sentence?
Here is “yes” used in a sentence: “"Do you want more coffee?" "Yes, please.".”
What is another word for “yes”?
Words with a similar meaning to “yes” include arr, ay, aye, yea, yassuh and Nautical.
What is the opposite of “yes”?
The opposite of “yes” — its antonyms — are no, Nautical, military, telecommunications: negative and nay.
What part of speech is “yes”?
Depending on how it is used, “yes” can be a particle, an intj, a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “yes” come from?
The word “yes” comes from Old English. From Old English gise, meaning roughly "may it be so" or "certainly" — from the same root as "yea".
Is “yes” a common word?
“Yes” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between "yes" and "yeah"?
"Yeah" is the relaxed, informal spoken form of "yes." Use "yes" in formal writing, interviews, and any situation that needs clear confirmation; "yeah" belongs in casual conversation and informal messages.
Do you put a comma after "yes" in a sentence?
When "yes" starts a reply, follow it with a comma: "Yes, I agree." When it stands alone as an exclamation of pleasure or triumph, use an exclamation mark: "Yes!"
Can "yes" be used as a noun?
Yes — "a yes" means an affirmative answer, acceptance, or vote: "the proposal received a firm yes." The plural is usually spelled "yeses," though "yesses" also appears.
What is the difference between "yes" and "aye"?
Both signal agreement or confirmation, but "aye" is dialectal and traditional — common in Scotland and northern England, and used in formal voting ("all those in favour say aye"). "Yes" is the standard form in general English.