20 ways to say “Yes” in English with examples

Are you tired of saying the same “Yes” in English? Here are 20 alternative ways to express consent, from formal to informal, and learn how these expressions can be used with real-life examples. Not all methods are presented in this article, there are many more of them, but the main ones are quite enough for those who are learning English.

1. Yes: The classic and universally understood affirmation.

   • Example: “Will you be at the meeting?” / “Yes, I wouldn’t miss it.”

2. Okay: A common affirmative that’s friendly and neutral.

   • Example: “Can you email me the report?” / “Okay, I’ll send it by end of day.”

3. Okey-dokey: A light-hearted, somewhat playful way to say “yes.”

   • Example: “Do you want to try this new ice cream flavor?” / “Okey-dokey, it looks delicious!”

4. As you wish: A polite and somewhat formal expression, carrying a tone of respectful acquiescence.

   • Example: “Should I schedule our appointment for 9 AM?” / “As you wish, that time works well.”

5. Roger: Originating from radio communications, it’s often used to confirm that a message has been received and understood.

   • Example: “Please make sure to secure the premises.” / “Roger, the area will be checked.”

6. Sure: Informal and versatile, showing easygoing agreement.

   • Example: “Do you want to catch a movie tonight?” / “Sure, what shall we watch?”

7. Absolutely: A strong, emphatic form of agreement.

   • Example: “Do you agree with the plan?” / “Absolutely, it’s the best course of action.”

8. Certainly: Expresses no doubt or hesitation with a touch of formality.

   • Example: “Can you confirm your attendance?” / “Certainly, I have already marked it in my calendar.”

9. Definitely: Shows enthusiasm and firm positive confirmation.

   • Example: “Are you going to the concert?” / “Definitely, I’ve been looking forward to it!”

10. Sure thing: Casual and confident affirmative, customary in American English.

• • Example: “Can you hold my place in line?” / “Sure thing, go ahead!”

11. Of course: Suggests that the agreement or permission was expected or is naturally given.

• • Example: “May I borrow your book?” / “Of course, just bring it back when you’re done.”

12. Indeed: A formal way to reinforce a previous “yes” or agreement.

• • Example: “Is this your final decision?” / “Indeed, I have no further doubts.”

13. By all means: An encouraging way to say “yes,” especially in granting permission.

• • Example: “May I use your phone?” / “By all means, help yourself.”

14. I’m down: Slang for expressing a willingness or keenness to partake.

• • Example: “Want to join us for a road trip?” / “I’m down, sounds like a blast!”

15. Sounds good: Shows positive reception towards an idea or plan.

• • Example: “Let’s meet at 6.” / “Sounds good, see you then.”

16. That’s correct: Used to affirm the accuracy of a statement.

• • Example: “So you’re saying the event starts at three?” / “That’s correct.”

17. You bet: Enthusiastic affirmation, often with an implication of readiness or excitement.

• • Example: “Can I count on your support?” / “You bet, I’m all in.”

18. I guess so: A hesitant or reluctant form of agreement.

• • Example: “Is this the only option available?” / “I guess so, there don’t seem to be any others.”

19. No problem: A casual way of saying that fulfilling the request will not be inconvenient.

• • Example: “Can you drop me off on your way?” / “No problem, it’s on my route.”

20. Yep: used in informal or conversational situations. Known for its ease and casualness, “yep” indicates confidence and agreement without excessive formality.

• • Example: “Did you finish the assignment?” / “Yep, I completed it yesterday.”

Using a variety of phrases to express agreement in English can turn even the simplest conversation into a fascinating exchange of ideas. These 20 expressions offer a wide range to choose from when communicating. Try not to use “Yes” all the time, or another form all the time, focus on what kind of conversation it is, whether it’s official or you’re talking with friends.