The ayes have it: Learn what the means through example!

What does “The ayes have it” mean?

"The ayes have it" means that the majority of people have voted in favor of something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After a long debate, the ayes have it and the bill was passed.

Example

The ayes have it and the decision was made to proceed with the project.

Example

The chairman announced that the ayes have it and the motion was approved

Is “The ayes have it” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“The ayes have it” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “The ayes have it” effectively in context?

You can use "The ayes have it" to indicate that the majority of people have voted in favor of something. It is often used in formal settings, such as parliamentary or board meetings, to announce the result of a vote. For example, if a bill is being discussed and the majority of members vote in favor of it, the speaker might say, 'The "ayes have it" and the bill is passed.'

• 1. Parliamentary Meeting

  After a long debate, the ayes have it and the bill was passed.

• 2. Decision Making

  The ayes have it and the decision was made to proceed with the project.

• 3. Board Meeting

  The chairman announced that the ayes have it and the motion was approved.

Similar phrases to “The ayes have it”:

The motion carries

The majority of people have voted in favor of a motion

Example

After the vote, it was announced that the motion carries and the proposal is accepted.

In favor

The majority of people support or vote for something

Example

The committee members were asked to indicate whether they were in favor of the proposal.

Majority rules

The decision is determined by the majority of votes

Example

In this organization, majority rules and decisions are made based on the votes of the majority.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “The ayes have it” come from?

The origin of the phrase "The ayes have it" is unknown.

Is “The ayes have it” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "The ayes have it" is a commonly used expression in formal settings, particularly in parliamentary or board meetings where voting takes place. It is not as commonly used in everyday conversation.

What tone does “The ayes have it” have?

"The ayes have it" conveys a tone of finality and decision. It is used to announce the outcome of a vote and indicate that the majority has made a decision.

Can “The ayes have it” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "The ayes have it" is a formal expression that is typically used in parliamentary or board meetings. It may not be as appropriate for casual or informal conversations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is typically used as part of a sentence to announce the result of a vote. For example, 'The "ayes have it" and the bill is passed.' However, in a formal setting where the context is clear, it may be understood even if used alone, such as saying 'The "ayes have it"!' to indicate that the majority has voted in favor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• the majority has voted in favor
• the vote is in favor
• the majority supports

Antonyms

• the nays have it
• the majority has voted against
• the vote is against