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yes

part. · n.
US //ˈjɛs// UK //jˈɛs// yes
  1. 1 agreement or acceptance (part.)
    A1 Beginner

    you use this to agree with someone or to say that something is true.

    used to express agreement, confirmation, or acceptance in response to a question or statement.

    Example

    When I asked if she wanted some coffee, she just said yes and smiled.

    Example

    The witness answered with a firm yes when asked to confirm the identity of the suspect in the courtroom.

    Usage

    functions as a complete sentence or a response particle.
  2. 2 answering a call (part.)
    A1 Beginner

    you use this to show you are listening when someone calls your name.

    used as a response to being addressed, indicating that the speaker is present and paying attention.

    Example

    Yes? I am in the kitchen if you need any help.

    Example

    The professor looked up from his notes and said, 'Yes? Do you have a question about the lecture?'

    Usage

    often spoken with a rising intonation.
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  1. 3 an affirmative vote (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a vote in favour of something, or a person who votes that way.

    an affirmative answer or a vote cast in support of a proposal.

    Example

    The committee counted ten yeses and only two nos for the new plan.

    Example

    The resolution passed easily, with the final tally showing forty yeses against only five dissenting votes.

    Usage

    often used in the plural when counting votes.
Origin

From Middle English yes, from Old English ġīese (“by all means, of course, yes”), derived from the same root as yea. Compare Faroese júsá (“yes, indeed, certainly”).

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