hm
word
/hm/
hm
/ˌeɪtʃˈɛm/
aych-EM
Definition
A sound people make when they are thinking, unsure, doubtful, or reacting without saying a full word. It often shows hesitation or quiet consideration.
Usage & Nuances
Usually written in dialogue, messages, or informal writing, not formal prose. Meaning depends heavily on tone: 'hm' can sound thoughtful, doubtful, mildly disapproving, or unconvinced. It is close to 'hmm', but 'hmm' often feels a bit longer or more expressive.
Spanish: hm - mmmPortuguese (BR): hum - hmmPortuguese (PT): hum - hmmChinese (Simplified): 嗯 - 唔Chinese (Traditional): 嗯 - 唔Hindi: हम्म - हूँArabic: همم - ممBengali: হ্ম - হুম - উঁহুRussian: м-м - хмJapanese: ふむ - うーんVietnamese: ừm - hm - hừmKorean: 음 - 흠Turkish: hmm - ımmUrdu: ہم - ہُمIndonesian: hmm - hm
Example Sentences
Hm, now that you mention it, I do remember her face.
natural
Hm, I don't know the answer.
basic
She looked at the cake and said, "Hm."
basic
"Hm... maybe tomorrow," he said.
basic
Hm, that doesn't sound right to me.
natural
I asked if he was coming, and he just went "hm."
natural