uh-huh

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See also: uhhuh and uh huh

English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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Imitative of non-verbal sounds used to indicate agreement or to allow the speaker to continue talking. Compare synonymous mhm.

Pronunciation

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  • IPA(key): [ʌ˨ˈɦʌ˩˧]
  • Both vowels may be nasalized; the [ɦ] may be a regular [h]; the pitch may show some variability; and occasionally, the first syllable may be stressed.
  • Audio (Canada):(file)
  • Audio (US):(file)

Particle

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uh-huh

  1. Yes; yeah.
    • 1914, Sinclair Lewis, Our Mr. Wrenn:
      "So? Lived there long?" "Uh-huh, I--" began Mr. Wrenn.

Usage notes

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  • "Uh-huh" can be used informally as an answer to a question.
  • "Uh-huh" can be used to show disinterest or disbelief in answer to a statement in lieu of other similar statements such as "Whatever".
  • "Uh-huh" is often said while someone else is talking, in order to show that the listener is still interested or agrees with what the speaker is saying (backchannelling).
  • "Uh-huh" can serve as an informal reply to thanks or an expression of gratitude.
  • "Uh-huh", in an elongated form, can be used to signify sarcastic agreement.

Synonyms

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Antonyms

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Derived terms

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Translations

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Further reading

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Anagrams

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