What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hey
Example
Hey, how are you doing? [hey: interjection]
Example
Hey, that's amazing news! [hey: interjection]
Example
Hey, stop doing that! [hey: interjection]
yo
Example
Yo, what's up? [yo: interjection]
Example
Yo, that's so cool! [yo: interjection]
Example
Yo, cut it out! [yo: interjection]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hey is more commonly used than yo in everyday language and is more versatile in terms of formality. Yo is less common and may not be appropriate in formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hey and yo?
Hey is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while yo is more informal and may not be appropriate in formal situations.