What does it mean when they say word


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Learn how to effortlessly use and respond to “word”


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  • What does “Word” mean?
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  • How to Use “Word”
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  • How to Respond to “Word”
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  • What does “Word up” mean?

You’re texting someone, and they reply back with a short, simple “Word.” Okay…. What does that mean? And what are you supposed to say? Luckily, “Word” is usually a positive response, but it does change meaning depending on the situation. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about this four letter word (plus, how it’s different from “Word up”). No matter the vibe of the conversation, keep reading to become the ultimate “Word” analyst.

Things You Should Know

  • “Word” is a casual response to acknowledge what someone is saying. It’s another way to say, “Cool” or “Okay.”
  • “Word” and “Word up” can be used to show agreement with the speaker, confirming that you approve of their statement.
  • Respond with “Word” to politely affirm someone’s statement, or use it like a question to express shock about what they said.
  • To reply to “Word,” ask the other person a follow up question to keep the conversation going.
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    “Word” is a casual reply to acknowledge what someone said. Often used over text, “Word” is another way to say, “Okay” or “Cool.” It communicates that you heard the other person or received their text message.[1]

    • “I’m coming over later.” “Word.”
    • “I might be 10 minutes late.” “Word.”
    • “The password is 2948.” “Word.”
    • “My friend is visiting me on Friday.” “Word.”
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    2

    “Word” can also indicate you agree with the speaker. When someone responds with “Word,” it may be their way of saying, “Well said” or “Exactly.” If you express a statement (or unpopular opinion), “Word” means the other person approves of what is being said, implying your comment is true.[2]

    • “Shake Shack is better than In-N-Out.” “Word.”
    • “Crocs are so comfy.” “Word.”
    • “Last night was a movie.” “Word.”
    • “Our professor is hilarious.” “Word.”

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    “Word” may be used to show indifference or anger. If you ask someone to do something they don’t want to (or send a passive aggressive text), they might respond with “Word” to brush you off. It’s their way of saying, “Right…” or “Whatever,” especially if they end the word with an abrupt period.[3]

    • “Can you clean out the kitchen before I get back?” “Word.”
    • “You left a puddle of water in the bathroom.” “Word.”
    • “Will you reschedule your appointment?” “Word.”
    • “I heard your little jam session until 3 AM.” “Word.”
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    Respond with “Word” to recognize what someone said. Instead of replying to someone’s text with a Tapback or emoji, use “Word” to politely affirm their message. This typically ends the conversation until someone introduces a new topic or asks a question.

    • “Class flew by today.” “Word.”
    • “The game is at 5.” “Word.”
    • “That recipe was surprisingly easy.” “Word.”
    • “Hmmm, let me get back to you about that.” “Word.”
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    2

    Add a question mark to convey shock or disbelief. If your friend shares a crazy story or major life event, respond with “Word?” to confirm you heard them correctly. This is another way of saying, “Really?” which prompts them to give you more details about their situation.

    • “I passed my driver’s test yesterday.” “Word?” “Yeah! I can finally take us places…”
    • “I’m moving next week.” “Word?” “I know, I wasn’t expecting it…”
    • “I got a new job!” “Word?” “Yeah, it happened so suddenly…”
    • “I went on a blind date.” “Word?” “Yes, it was very interesting…”
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    Follow up with an exclamation mark to show your enthusiasm. Are you excited about upcoming plans for yourself or someone else? Reply with “Word!” to express how much you’re looking forward to the future.

    • “What’s on the menu?” “Pizza.” “Word!”
    • “When are you free?” “Anytime on Friday.” “Word!”
    • “Where’s the reception?” “At the Hilton.” “Word!”
    • “When’s your Spring Break?” “March 3rd.” “Word, me too!”
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    Ask an open-ended question to keep the conversation going. Don’t want a text conversation to end? Ask them a follow up question or simply bring up a new topic. If you feel awkward switching subjects or continuing the discussion, preface your response with “Random question…” or “Also.”

    • You: «I can send you everything by Saturday.»
      Them: «Word»
      You: «Did you need it sooner?»
    • You: «I think the weather’s getting colder.»
      Them: «Word»
      You: «Random question but do you know any stores that sell cute coats?»
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    2

    Reply with “Bet” to let them know you received their message. Rather than leaving your friend on read, respond with “Bet” to affirm you heard them. It’s slang for “Okay,” so it’s perfect to throw in a casual conversation. If you want to convey more energy or emotion, feel free to follow the phrase with some fun emojis.[4]

    • You: «She said it only takes 10 minutes to set up.»
      Them: «Word»
      You: «Bet»
    • You: «The party is on Friday.»
      Them: «Word»
      You: «Bettt🔥»
    • You: «You want to hit the beach this weekend?»
      Them: «Word»
      You: «Bet🏄‍♀️🏄‍♀️🏄‍♀️»
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    1

    “Word up” expresses agreement with someone. Similar to “Word,” “Word up» means you support what is being said. It’s an informal way of saying “I approve,” so it’s generally reserved for casual conversations with friends.

    • “That movie was incredible.” “Word up.”
    • “That was the best pasta I’ve eaten all year.” “Word up.”
    • “Her outfit was sooo cute.” “Word up.”
    • “I think it’s safe to say our party was a success.” “Word up.”
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    2

    “Word up” can also be used as a friendly greeting. While this isn’t super common, some people interchange “Word up” with “What’s up?” or “What’s happening?” It’s a humorous and light-hearted way to join a group conversation, especially if you sense some tension.[5]

    • “Word up?! Where are you guys going?”
    • “Word up, people?”
    • “Yo, word up?”
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About This Article

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Originally Answered: What does it mean when somebody says word? “word” and “word up” are slang terms in American English. They typically signify agreement on the part of the speaker to whatever was just said to them. Example: Person A: Today is too hot, I just want to sit inside with the air conditioner.

Contents

  • 1 What does word mean in slang?
  • 2 How do you respond when someone says word?
  • 3 What does it mean to just say word?
  • 4 What does the saying my word mean?
  • 5 What does word up mean in texting?
  • 6 What does it mean when someone says word to your mother?
  • 7 Where did the saying word come from?
  • 8 What does it mean when someone says I have no words?
  • 9 Why do people say you have my word?
  • 10 What does you have my word mean?
  • 11 What does mince your words mean?
  • 12 What’s another word for word up?
  • 13 How do you use word Up?
  • 14 What does my word is bond mean?
  • 15 What does the M in Mother mean?
  • 16 How do you say word to my mother in Spanish?
  • 17 What 90’s hip hop star used the phrase word to your mother?
  • 18 Who came up with the saying word?
  • 19 What is the bad word?
  • 20 When did people start saying word as slang?

What does word mean in slang?

1. Word can mean okay or just to communicate that you heard them. “I’ll be there in 5 minutes.” “Word.” “I’m going to the store, I’ll be back later.”

How do you respond when someone says word?

Ways of accepting someone’s thanks – thesaurus

  1. you’re welcome. phrase. used in reply to someone who has thanked you.
  2. no problem. phrase.
  3. not at all. phrase.
  4. don’t mention it. phrase.
  5. it’s no bother. phrase.
  6. (it’s) my pleasure. phrase.
  7. it’s/that’s all right. phrase.
  8. it’s nothing/think nothing of it. phrase.

What does it mean to just say word?

DEFINITIONS1. used for telling someone that you are ready to do something for them as soon as they ask. We can go whenever you like. Just say the word.

What does the saying my word mean?

Definition of my word
—used to express surprise or astonishment.

What does word up mean in texting?

I approve; I agree
Word-up meaning
(slang, US) I approve; I agree. interjection. 24. 2. “Listen up!”; “pay attention!”.

What does it mean when someone says word to your mother?

The phrase is used to express agreement with someone. It can also be used to offend someone implying that the speaker had intimate relations with the other person’s mother.

Where did the saying word come from?

Both are generally used to mean “I agree.” The terms are from late 1980s hip-hop slang. As Ed Guiness notes, popular usage probably originated with the single Word Up!

What does it mean when someone says I have no words?

“I have no words.” You can hear this in many different situations (in anger, sorrow, joy, regret, etc) as mentioned in another answer, but it will always mean “I don’t know what to say.”

Why do people say you have my word?

When someone says that “you have my word”, it means that they are promising you something and they’re going to fulfil that promise.

What does you have my word mean?

An assurance or promise; sworn intention: She has kept her word. (MW) ‘You have my word’ derives from the chivalric code. One would literally have to stake their word, synonymous with their honor, upon completing whatever was agreed upon. ‘You have my word/I give you my word/take my word for it’.

What does mince your words mean?

: to speak in a very direct and honest way without worrying about offending someone He doesn’t mince words when it comes to giving his opinion about the new law.

What’s another word for word up?

What is another word for up?

upward skyward
higher skywards
aloft heavenwards
heavenward to the top
towards a higher level uphill

How do you use word Up?

We use up as an adverb to talk about movement towards a higher position, value, number or level:

  1. She put the books up on the highest shelf.
  2. The good weather has pushed sales of summer clothes up.
  3. We light the fire every night and that heats the room up.

What does my word is bond mean?

Definition of my word is my bond
used to indicate that one will always do what one has promised to do You can believe me when I say I’ll help you. My word is my bond.

What does the M in Mother mean?

Magnificent
Mother ~ M Stands for Magnificent, O Stands for Outstanding, T Stands for Tender, H Stands for Honorable, E Stands for Extraordinary, R Stands for Remarkable.Mother ~ M Stands for Magnificent, O Stands for Outstanding, T Stands for Tender, H Stands for Honorable, E Stands for Extraordinary, R Stands for Remarkable.

How do you say word to my mother in Spanish?

Word to your mother — Palabra a tu madre.

What 90’s hip hop star used the phrase word to your mother?

2Pac, “Dear Mama”

Who came up with the saying word?

wording (n.) “choice of words, manner in which something is expressed,” apparently coined by Milton in “Eikonoklastes” (1649). From present participle of word (v.).

What is the bad word?

A swear word is a word or phrase that’s generally considered blasphemous, obscene, vulgar, or otherwise offensive. These are also called bad words, obscenities, expletives, dirty words, profanities, and four-letter words.”Swear words serve many different functions in different social contexts,” notes Janet Holmes.

When did people start saying word as slang?

The origin of the word slang itself is obscure; it first appeared in print around 1800, applied to the speech of disreputable and criminal classes in London. The term, however, was probably used much earlier.

If you’ve ever heard someone say “word” and been unsure of what it means, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll explore the meaning of the term and how you can use it.

The word “word” has a few different meanings when used in slang. It can be used to agree with someone, as in “That’s the word!” It can also be used to describe something that’s cool or impressive, as in “That new car is the word!” Finally, it can be used to describe something that’s really bad, as in “This party is a total word!”

The word “word” from a slang point of view is generally seen as a positive term.

What does my word mean in slang?

Slang is a type of informal language that is used by a particular group of people. The word “slang” can refer to the words themselves or to the way in which they are used. Slang words are often used in place of more standard words, and they are often seen as being more casual or relaxed.

Slang can be used to create an inside joke or to show membership in a particular group. It can also be used to make someone feel more comfortable or to make them laugh. Sometimes, people use slang words without even realizing it.

Slang is always changing, and new words are constantly being created. Some words become so popular that they eventually become part of standard English. Others fade away over time. But whether they last for a long time or not, slang words can give us a glimpse into the culture of the people who use them.

Why do they say word?

They say the “word” as a sign of respect or something they like. For example, if I said ill meet you on broadway north at about 14:00 and you got a reply “word” it means yes see you then.

What does my word mean in text?

The word “word” can mean a lot of different things in a text. It can be used to refer to a positive sign. You may hear this spoken in America as a term.

For example, “That’s the word!” It can also be used to express something that is very important or valuable.

Why do people say oh my word?

The phrase “oh my word” is used to express surprise, disbelief, or other strong emotions. It can be used as a standalone exclamation or as part of a longer sentence. For example, you might say “Oh my word, I can’t believe he’s gone” to express your shock at someone’s death.

What does “word up” mean?

“Word up” is a popular expression that can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can be used as a greeting, to show agreement, or to express excitement.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to slang, saying a “word” is seen as a positive way of showing gratitude. We hope you have found your answer you may want to check out this website as it will help you to understand human nature a little better and body language. You may also find this post useful What Does It Mean When a Girl Replies With One Word?

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 One thing I’ve taken note of while living in Brazil, is that Brazilians have no idea how to use the slang term “word,” which is extremely common in informal American use of English. Are you one of them?

If you didn’t already know of these five uses for “word” then you’re like 99.9% of all non-native English speaker, but today you can move on step closer.

Word means more than just “palavra.” Besides meaning a group of letters that make up sentences, word also has many other meanings.

“Word,” when used correctly, can be one of the most colorful and versatile words in the English language. Similar to the word “fuck,” “word” can be used to mean many different things. It is one of the rare words that can mean exact opposites, depending on context, tone, and body language.

“Word” is also one of the most complicated words in the English language, simply because it has so many uses. To tell the difference between it’s many uses, you really need to pay attention to the context and intonation of the speaker.

Informal Uses of “Word”

1. Word can mean okay or just to communicate that you heard them. 

  • “I’ll be there in 5 minutes.”
    “Word.”
  • “I’m going to the store, I’ll be back later.”
    “Word.”

Note: Here it’s usually said quickly and indifferently.

2. Word can mean cool, like:

  • “I got an A on my test.”
    “Word.”

Note: Here it’s used with a little more excitement, and it’s a little more drawn out.

3. Word can be used in an annoyed or indifferent way, like yeah, whatever:

  • “Hey man, you forgot to clean up.”
    “Word.”
  • “I’m going to hang out with John (someone you don’t like).”
    “Word.”

Note: Here it’s used often with the roll of the eyes, and in annoyed sound in their voice. It’s also a little drawn out.

4. Word can be used to show disbelief, like “really?”:

  • “Yo, I got a new car.”
    Word?!”

5. Word up is also sometimes used, but it has a slightly different meaning. It can mean I agree with what you’re saying, usually with some enthusiasm.

  • “Real Life English is amazing!”
    Word up!”

6. To put words in your mouth means to falsely or inaccurately report what you said.

  • “Hey man, that’s not what I said. You’re putting words in my mouth.

7.  To take the words out of my mouth means I was thinking the exact same thing.

  • “I was just about to say that! You took the words right out of my mouth.”

8. Word on the street is a rumor or piece of information that is currently being talked about. 

  • Word on the street is Chad has a fan club.”

9. Word to the wise is a hint or brief explanation given.

  • Word to the wise, don’t go through the favelas in a BMW.”

Less Informal Uses of “Word”

10. To give your word means to tell the truth:

  • “Will you be here when I get back? Give me your word.”

11. Don’t take my word for it is to trust what is being said:

  • “Papaya is delicious, but don’t just take my word for it, try it yourself.

12. Keep your word, do what you have promised.

  • “Josh gave his word to not eat meat for 30 days.
  • “Remember Josh, you said you would go on a vegetarian diet for 30 days, keep your word.

13. To have a word is to have a quick conversation, to speak briefly.

  • “I have some news, can I have a word with you real quick?”

14. In other words, to express something in a different way. In other words is often abbreviated as i.e.

  • “I got drunk at the bar last night, so in other words I’m getting better at  holding my liquor.”

15. Just say the word means I am at your service, just tell me when you want to be served.

  • “Would you like some water?”
    “Not now, maybe later.”
    “Just say the word.”

16. Word of mouth is when Information passed through people talking, not through the written language.

  • “Capoeira was passed down through word of mouth.”

17. Words fail me / at a loss for words means to be unable to speak. Often used to express disbelief or dismay.

  • “Words fail me, I don’t know what to say…” or “I can’t believe he did that, I’m at a loss for words…”

 18. In your own words means to say it as you think it.

  • In your own words, what does chapter 12 say?

Conclusion

Word is a dynamic, colorful word that is used quite often in both the spoken and written language of English. Because of it’s versatility, proper usage will make the speaker seem quite advanced.

To get some practice using these different phrases, feel free to make a comment putting one of more of these different uses into practice and have your work corrected by a native speaker.

Another important thing you can do is just pay attention to the way it’s used in films and TV shows. Plus, if you live in Belo Horizonte, be sure to come to our RLE events. Join the community and you’ll be invited to our next event (Saturday August 11!)

If you have any questions about what was written above, or would like more details about a certain use, just say the word. 😉

Return from 18 Slang Uses for the Term “Word” to Slang

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Kyle : Soulja Boy justed died today! He forgot to wear his bpv.

Michael : Say Word?!

Kyle : I’m dead ass…

Michael : GOOD! Now I can listen to singers/rappers with actual talent, like Lupe Fiasco, and Leona Lewis!

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A certain way that you can answer your cell when you are in a major rush. You have no time to mess around with proper greetings. If the person calling does not say words quickly enough, you hang up. They can try again later.

*Ring Ring Ring*

You: «Say Words!»

Caller: *Silence for 5 seconds*

You: *Click — Hangs Up Phone*

Later….

*Ring Ring Ring*

You: «Say Words»

Caller: «Hey loser, did you hang up on me earlier?»

You: «Hell yes I did, you know when I answer «Say Words» that I’m not messing around.»

Caller: «Damn, I forgot about that.»

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Every teacher wonders how to teach a word to students, so that it stays with them and they can actually use it in the context in an appropriate form. Have your students ever struggled with knowing what part of the speech the word is (knowing nothing about terminologies and word relations) and thus using it in the wrong way? What if we start to teach learners of foriegn languages the basic relations between words instead of torturing them to memorize just the usage of the word in specific contexts?

Let’s firstly try to recall what semantic relations between words are. Semantic relations are the associations that exist between the meanings of words (semantic relationships at word level), between the meanings of phrases, or between the meanings of sentences (semantic relationships at phrase or sentence level). Let’s look at each of them separately.

Word Level

At word level we differentiate between semantic relations:

  • Synonyms — words that have the same (or nearly the same) meaning and belong to the same part of speech, but are spelled differently. E.g. big-large, small-tiny, to begin — to start, etc. Of course, here we need to mention that no 2 words can have the exact same meaning. There are differences in shades of meaning, exaggerated, diminutive nature, etc. 
  • Antonyms — semantic relationship that exists between two (or more) words that have opposite meanings. These words belong to the same grammatical category (both are nouns, adjectives, verbs, etc.). They share almost all their semantic features except one. (Fromkin & Rodman, 1998) E.g.
    4 Skyteach
  • Homonyms — the relationship that exists between two (or more) words which belong to the same grammatical category, have the same spelling, may or may not have the same pronunciation, but have different meanings and origins. E.g. to lie (= to rest) and to lie (= not to tell the truth); When used in a context, they can be misunderstood especially if the person knows only one meaning of the word.

Other semantic relations include hyponymy, polysemy and metonymy which you might want to look into when teaching/learning English as a foreign language.

At Phrase and Sentence Level

Here we are talking about paraphrases, collocations, ambiguity, etc.

  • Paraphrase — the expression of the meaning of a word, phrase or sentence using other words, phrases or sentences which have (almost) the same meaning. Here we need to differentiate between lexical and structural paraphrase. E.g.

    Lexical — I am tired = I am exhausted.
    Structural — He gave the book to me = He gave me the book.

  • Ambiguity — functionality of having two or more distinct meanings or interpretations. You can read more about its types here.
  • Collocations — combinations of two or more words that often occur together in speech and writing. Among the possible combinations are verbs + nouns, adjectives + nouns, adverbs + adjectives, etc. Idiomatic phrases can also sometimes be considered as collocations. E.g. ‘bear with me’, ‘round and about’, ‘salt and pepper’, etc.

So, what does it mean to know a word? 
Knowing a word means knowing all of its semantic relations and usages.

Why is it useful? 
It helps to understand the flow of the language, its possibilities, occurrences, etc.better.

Should it be taught to EFL learners? 
Maybe not in that many details and terminology, but definitely yes if you want your learners to study the language in depth, not just superficially.

How should it be taught?
Not as a separate phenomenon, but together with introducing a new word/phrase, so that students have a chance to create associations and base their understanding on real examples. You can give semantic relations and usages, ask students to look up in the dictionary, brainstorm ideas in pairs and so on.  

Let us know what you do to help your students learn the semantic relations between the words and whether it helps.

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