What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
halloa
Example
Halloa! Is anyone there? [halloa: interjection]
Example
Halloa, what a surprise to see you here! [halloa: exclamation]
Example
He gave a loud halloa to his friends across the street. [halloa: noun]
hey
Example
Hey, can you pass me the salt please? [hey: interjection]
Example
Hey, that's amazing news! [hey: exclamation]
Example
She greeted her friend with a cheerful hey. [hey: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hey is much more common than halloa in everyday language, and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between halloa and hey?
Halloa is more formal than hey, and is typically used in more traditional or old-fashioned settings, while hey is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
