1
—used as a function word to express assent or agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
—used as a function word usually to introduce correction or contradiction of a negative assertion or direction
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
—used as a function word to introduce a more emphatic or explicit phrase
4
—used as a function word to indicate uncertainty or polite interest or attentiveness
Examples of yes in a Sentence
Adverb
yes, I'll be ready for the test tomorrow
Noun
We need a yes to go ahead with the project.
She answered all the questions with yeses and nos.
Recent Examples on the Web
Adrian Bridgwater, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Theoretically, yes: if the Trump administration withdraws from NATO, the treaty will remain in effect for the other 31 members.
—Ivo H. Daalder, Foreign Affairs, 28 Mar. 2025
Geri Stengel, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
But the reality is that even the most successful fundraisers often involve far more rejections than yeses.
—Mike Mahlkow, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for yes
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Adverb
The answer is probably yes, somewhat, but in fact not completely.
—Adrian Bridgwater, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Theoretically, yes: if the Trump administration withdraws from NATO, the treaty will remain in effect for the other 31 members.
—Ivo H. Daalder, Foreign Affairs, 28 Mar. 2025
Noun
Unlike standard ovulation tests that simply give a yes or no answer, Oova's test quantifies key fertility hormones—luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone (PdG).
—Geri Stengel, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
But the reality is that even the most successful fundraisers often involve far more rejections than yeses.
—Mike Mahlkow, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for yes
Cite this Entry
“Yes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yes. Accessed 5 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
yes
1 of 2 adverb
ˈyes 
ˈyeu̇,
ˈe-(y)ə,
are three of many variants
1
—used to express agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
—used to correct or contradict what another has said
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
—used to introduce a phrase with greater force or clearness
we are glad, yes, very glad to see you
4
—used to show interest or attention
yes, what is it you want
yes
2 of 2 nounˈyes
: a positive reply
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