uhhuh

Uhhuh is an interjection used to indicate agreement, acknowledgment, or comprehension in informal spoken English. It is typically a quick, nonverbal response rather than a fully formed sentence, often voiced with a rising or flat intonation depending on emphasis. The most common standard spelling is “uh-huh,” though many orthographic variants exist, including “uhhuh,” “uh huh,” or “uhh-huh.” In dictionaries, “uh-huh” is described as an informal affirmative response.

Usage: It signals assent, confirms understanding during conversation, or invites further response. The tone and context determine whether it implies enthusiasm, skepticism, or passive agreement. In transcripts, it is often used to capture natural conversational cues.

In writing and transcription: The representation varies with style guides; “uh-huh” is widely preferred in formal transcripts, while “uhhuh” or “uh huh” appear in casual texts. It can be accompanied by gestures like nodding.

Variants: Some languages have equivalents such as “mhm,” “yeah,” or “yep.” In digital communication, “uhhuh” may be used to convey quick, informal agreement in messages or chat.

Uhhuh is a small, everyday element of conversation that helps manage turn-taking and social rapport in many variants of English.