hey
word
/ˈheɪ/
HAY
/hˈeɪ/
HAY
Definition
A casual way to get someone's attention, say hello, or express surprise or excitement.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and friendly. Often used in spoken English and text messages. Typically placed at the start of a sentence to greet or get attention. Avoid in formal writing.
Spanish: hola - oyePortuguese (BR): oi - eiPortuguese (PT): olá - eiChinese (Simplified): 嘿 - 喂Chinese (Traditional): 嘿 - 喂Hindi: हाय - अरेArabic: مرحبًا - هيهBengali: এই - হেইRussian: эй - приветJapanese: ねえ - ヘイVietnamese: này - êKorean: 야 - 헤이Turkish: hey - selamUrdu: ارےIndonesian: hei - hai
Example Sentences
Hey, how are you?
basic
Hey, listen to me!
basic
Hey, look at this!
basic
Hey, I haven’t seen you in ages!
natural
Hey, don’t forget to call me later.
natural
Hey, what’s going on here?
natural