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"Correct" as an alternative to "Yes"

English Language & Usage Asked by Will A on August 8, 2021

I’m noticing, whilst watching the George Floyd trial, that a couple of the witnesses are using the word "Correct" in response to yes/no questions, as a substitute for "Yes".

Since they’re not getting called out on this, is it actually the case that this is acceptable language in a Minnesota courtroom?

Example:

"Is your co-worker older than you?"

"Correct."

One Answer

There are English dialects that function without always relying on the words yes and no.

Irish has no words that directly translate as "yes" or "no", and instead repeats the verb used in the question, negated if necessary, to answer. Hiberno-English uses "yes" and "no" less frequently than other English dialects as speakers can repeat the verb, positively or negatively, instead of (or in redundant addition to) using "yes" or "no".

"Are you coming home soon?" – "I am."
"Is your mobile charged?" – "It isn't."

This is not limited only to the verb to be: it is also used with to have when used as an auxiliary; and, with other verbs, the verb to do is used. This is most commonly used for intensification, especially in Ulster English.

"This is strong stuff, so it is."
"We won the game, so we did."

Wikipedia

PS. I have no idea about the rules in a Minnesota courtroom.

Answered by k1eran on August 8, 2021

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