English Reference

Word

hmm

US/hm/

UK/hˈəm/

Definitions

01thinking or pondering

A1

interj. you use this sound to show you are thinking about something or considering an idea.

interj. used to indicate that the speaker is engaged in thought, reflection, or deliberation.

“Hmm, I'm not sure if I can come to the party on Saturday.”

“Hmm, that is an interesting proposal, though I will need to consult with the rest of the department before committing to a budget.”

Informal

Synonyms

umerwell

02surprise or confusion

A2

interj. a sound you make when you are surprised or didn't hear what someone said.

interj. indicates surprise, mild confusion, or a request for repetition when addressed unexpectedly.

“Hmm? Sorry, I wasn't listening to you just then.”

“Hmm? I didn't realize the meeting had already started while I was away from my desk.”

Informal

Synonyms

03demanding an answer

B1

interj. a sound used at the end of a question to show you are waiting for the other person to answer.

interj. used as a prompt or a tag question to elicit a response or confirmation from the listener.

“It's a beautiful day for a walk, hmm?”

“You haven't actually finished the report yet, hmm?”

Informal

Synonyms

rightdon't you think

Etymology

See hum.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domain

Statistics

This entry

Level
A1 · Beginner
Frequency
Common
Updated

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English Reference