hey
Definition
- Interjection:
- Used to attract attention: "hey" is an interjection used to call someone or to get their attention.
- Expression of surprise or interest: It can convey surprise, excitement, or a sudden realization.
- Informal greeting: "hey" is also commonly used as a casual way to say hello.
Usage Examples
- To attract attention:
- Hey, could you help me with this box? (Calling someone to request assistance.)
- Expression of surprise:
- Hey! That's my seat you're taking. (Expressing sudden notice or mild protest.)
- Informal greeting:
- Hey! Long time no see. How are you? (A friendly, casual greeting.)
Advanced Usage
- "Hey for ...": an exclamation encouraging movement or action toward a place or activity.
- Hey for the mountains! Let's go hiking this weekend. (Expressing enthusiasm for going to the mountains.)
- "Hey presto" (also "hey presto"): used to indicate that something happens instantly or as if by magic.
- I added the ingredients, stirred, and hey presto, the cake was ready. (It happened quickly and easily.)
Variants and Related Words
- Heyday (n): the period of greatest success or popularity.
- The 1920s were the heyday of jazz music. (The peak time for jazz.)
- Hey-ho (interjection): used to express resignation, boredom, or a mild complaint.
- Hey-ho, it's Monday again. Back to work. (A sigh of acceptance.)
Synonyms
- Hello: a standard greeting.
- Hi: an informal greeting.
- Yo: a very informal attention-getting exclamation (slang).
- Oi: a loud exclamation to attract attention (British English).
Phrasal Verbs
- (None directly associated with "hey" as a standalone word; it is primarily an interjection.)
Related Idioms
- Hey, wait a minute!: used to express sudden doubt or to stop someone.
- Hey, wait a minute! Did you just say you lost the keys? (Expressing surprise and a request for clarification.)
- Hey, not so fast!: used to tell someone to slow down or reconsider.
- Hey, not so fast! I haven't agreed to that plan yet. (A request to pause or think again.)