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romulus
do 'you know'?
this is about the expression "you know" / "y' know".
I've noticed that most Americans speak this kind of expression:
"well, y' know, I've always been there but nothing is happening, y' know."
I'd like to know if this kind of expression a sign of poor english language or just a normal part of American daily conversation? Or perhaps an indication of one's guiltiness?
:)@ roi g:
yes, I did that on purpose (i.e. putting apostrophe to the word 'you know') to pun my question.
Aug 11, 2009 4:21 PM
Answers · 5
3
Do 'you know'? it is an expression, not a question, "you know !" without the "do" in front, this expression havn't any meaning. We don't use it in writting. So, there is no " y know". In oral conversation, "you know !" it assume that you should know without my words. (The less educated people used this expression more often. But, it is not an offensive language)
August 11, 2009
2
This is what we call a verbal pause. It is quite common, but does sound very informal. We would not want to overuse something like "you know" in a formal situation, such as an interview or a toast.
Other verbal pauses, which people just "add in":
"sort of"
"like"
"um" / "uh"
"well"
"so ... "
Sometimes, "you know?" can be added as a way of being sure the other person gives feedback to corroborate information:
Ex.: "Do you remember the name of the film we watched in Sociology last year -- the documentary about child soldiers in Africa, you know?"
This is inviting the other person to add more detail, to be sure you are both thinking of the same thing.
August 11, 2009
Hello Romulus,
It is a rhetorical informal question and it doesn't refer to poor English!
It is mostly used in small talks and daily conversations to confirm the other knows already what is being said. It is a friendly approach to keep the listener hooked up to the conversation.It is almost like saying :
" Of course you know!"
" I know you are aware of what I am talking about"
"We are probably sharing the same thoughts or opinions"
August 13, 2009
@rumulos
i feel weird about your question.hummm your punning the word "do 'you know'? "
am i right on that?
cowboy...
August 12, 2009
"a sign of poor english" (c) you
August 11, 2009
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romulus
Language Skills
Chinese (Mandarin), English, Filipino (Tagalog), Spanish
Learning Language
Chinese (Mandarin)
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