Ayes means “yes” votes or support votes, especially in a formal meeting, parliament, or election-style vote. It is the plural form of aye, which is a word used to say yes.
People usually hear ayes when a group is voting aloud. For example, during a meeting, someone may ask who agrees with a proposal, and the “ayes” are the people who say yes or vote in favor. It is common in official or old-fashioned English, especially in politics and formal decision-making.
Meaning & Usage
Ayes refers to the votes in favor of something. If the ayes are more than the noes, the proposal passes. This word is often used in formal voting situations, not in casual everyday conversation.
Examples
“The ayes have it.”
“The chair asked for the ayes and noes before the vote.”
“Most of the ayes came from the committee members who supported the plan.”
What does “the ayes have it” mean?
It means the yes votes won, so the proposal or motion was approved.
Is “ayes” used in everyday English?
Not often. People usually say “yes votes” instead, but “ayes” is still common in formal meetings and political settings.
What is the opposite of “ayes”?
The opposite is usually “noes,” meaning the votes against something.
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