We say it a lot. But did you know that you might be sending the wrong meaning?

“Yeah, right” is most often used in sarcastic comments by advanced English speakers:

• Jay: Marcelo, did you know that my test score was better than yours?
• Marcelo: Yeah, right. You can’t beat me! I got 100% plus three bonus marks.

However, most students use it to show agreement:

• Livia: Amy, we are meeting at Pizza Palace at 5:30 tonight, right?
• Amy: Yeah, right. See you tonight.

The problem comes when you speak to your Canadian friends. You think you are agreeing with them, like Amy above, but they think you are being sarcastic, like Marcelo’s example. To be safe, say either “yeah!” or “right!” to show you agree. You’ll be easier to understand and people will think you are more polite.

• Naja: Does class start tomorrow at 9:30?
• John: Yeah. See you then!
• Simon: Right. Don’t forget your homework!