oo
The Bisaya word for "yes" is oo.
oo is a particle used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Which one should you use?
The direct opposite of oo is dili, which means "no".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In casual conversation, the second syllable is often dropped and people simply say o to mean "yes".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Cebuano Bisaya (Central Visayas), it is common to add ra after oo, forming Oo ra.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can add the particle lagi after oo to emphasize the affirmation, making it mean "yes, indeed" or "yes, really" (e.g., o lagi).
Did you know?
- While oo means 'yes', if you are asked if you do NOT want something, answering oo actually means 'no', because you are agreeing with the negative premise of the question.
- While oo is the literal word for 'yes', Bisaya speakers often answer a question by repeating the verb used in the query instead of saying oo.
- In a playful or sarcastic tone, prolonging the vowel to oooo can change the meaning from a simple 'yes' to a reluctant or doubtful agreement.
Examples in context
- Moadto ka sa party karong gabii?Are you coming to the party tonight?
- Hatagi ko'g tabang ha?Can you help me?
- Oo, moadto ko sa party.Yes, I will go to the party.
- Oo, nakadawat ko sa imong sulat.Yes, I received your letter.
- Oo, ganahan ko og kape.Yes, I like coffee.
Example conversation
Elena and Jun are talking about lunch plans.
- ElenaJun, mokaon ka ba og gawas karon?Jun, will you eat out today?
- JunOo, Elena. Ganahan ko mokaon sa gawas.Yes, Elena. I want to eat out.
- ElenaSige, uban ko nimo.Okay, I will go with you.
- JunSige, dungan na ta.Okay, let's go together.
