sí
/ˈsi/
The English phrase "yep" can be translated into Spanish as sí.
Depending on the tone and context, it can serve as both the standard "yes" and the informal "yep".
Meaning: informal "yes" (intj)
Which one should you use?
While sí is the standard, more neutral or formal way to say "yes", it is used to express the informal "yep" depending on how it is spoken. For more casual agreement, you might use the phrase sí, claro, which means "yeah, sure".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Chile, you can say sip or sipo as an informal way to say "yep".
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsi/
Did you know?
- The Latin ancestor of 'yes', sīc, actually meant 'thus' or 'in this manner', showing the word's history of pointing toward a specific truth.
- In some contexts, Spanish speakers may answer a 'no' question with sí to agree with the negative premise, which can confuse English speakers.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, a quick, subtle upward nod of the head often accompanies sí to reinforce the agreement.
Examples in context
- Sí.Yep.This example shows a simple use of sí.Tatoeba #477135 by Shishir, translation #879079 by sacredceltic
- ¡Ahhh! Sentir que una cerveza se filtra por cada poro de mi ser. Sí, nada supera una cerveza fría después del trabajo.Ahhh! Feel that beer seep into every fiber of my being. Yep, nothing beats a cold one after work.This example uses sí to express agreement that nothing compares to a cold beer after work.Tatoeba #1714386 by teskmon, translation #63057 by papabear
- Sí, es verdad.Yep, it's true.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are deciding what to eat.
- Alejandro¿Quieres comer pizza hoy, Elena?Do you want to eat pizza today, Elena?
- ElenaSí, suena genial.Yep, sounds great.
- Alejandro¿Pedimos una grande?Shall we order a large one?
- ElenaSí, por favor.Yep, please.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sí, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sí, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
