Short Answers
In English, we don't usually just say "Yes" or "No". We use short answers to sound polite!
done_outline Positive Answers
close Negative Answers
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NEVER use short forms (contractions) for POSITIVE short answers!
Yes, I am. ✅
Yes, he is. / Yes, they are. ✅
Quick Check ⚡
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Video Lesson
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Watch Teacher Sopheak explain today's topic. Pay attention to how he pronounces the short answers clearly!
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Recent Questions
I know it feels easier, but in English grammar, we cannot end a sentence with a positive contraction! The word "am", "is", or "are" needs to be spoken clearly and fully at the end of the sentence. 🛑
Can I just answer "Yes" or "No"? Is it wrong?
It is not grammatically wrong, but sometimes answering with just "Yes" or "No" sounds a little bit angry or rude to native speakers! Adding "I am" or "he isn't" makes you sound friendly and polite. 😊
Which one is better: "No, he isn't" or "No, he's not"?
Both are 100% correct! "No, he isn't" is very common in everyday speaking. "No, he's not" places a little more stress on the word "NOT", so it sounds a little bit stronger. Choose whichever you like! 👍
Why can't I just say "Yes, I'm"? It's shorter!