yog
The Hmong word for yes is yog.
yog is used as a particle to indicate agreement or acceptance. It is often used to confirm a statement or a question about identity or state.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Which one should you use?
Unlike English, where 'yes' is a standalone response, in Hmong, yog is frequently used to confirm the specific verb or state mentioned in the question.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word yog also functions as the copula verb 'to be' (is/am/are) in Hmong.
Did you know?
- The word yog is related to the word for 'to be at' in the Mien language, ʔjəmᴬ. This highlights a historical connection between Hmong and Mien linguistic groups.
- In Hmong conversation, yog is frequently repeated as yog yog to show strong agreement or to emphasize that something is absolutely true.
- In Hmong, the way you say 'yes' depends entirely on the verb used in the question. If the question uses a verb for 'to have' or 'to go', you would not use yog to say 'yes'.
Examples in context
- Yog, kuv xav li ntawd.Yes, I think so.
Example conversation
Mai is asking Tou if he is ready to leave.
- MaiTou, koj puas npaujug lawm?Tou, are you ready now?
- TouYog, kuv npaujug lawm.Yes, I am ready.
- MaiKoj puas muaj koj cov khoom?Do you have your things?
- TouYog, kuv muaj lawm.Yes, I have them.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries yog, CC BY-SA 4.0.
