Seein’ as How
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "seeing as how" (or "seein’ as how") means "since" or "because."It’s a conversational way to introduce a reason or explanation, often with a gentle or matter-of-fact tone.
synonyms: since, because, given that
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've said and heard 'seein’ as how' all my life, this is another common one. Pronunciation
[SEE-in az how] /ˈsiː.ɪn æz haʊ/
Meaning & Usage
- Because; since; in view of the fact that
Lou:
Seein’ as how the truck won’t start, we might as well walk.
Seein’ as how the truck won’t start, we might as well walk.
Earl:
Ain’t far anyhow.
Ain’t far anyhow.variations: seein’ as how, seein’s how, seein as, seein’ how
Origin and Etymology
Derived from older English constructions like "seeing that" and "seeing as," which mean "considering that." Southern and Appalachian speech preserved and expanded the form into "seeing as how," adding a rhythmic flow that reflects spoken emphasis and local idiom.
Usage Notes
Common in Southern and Appalachian storytelling and everyday talk. Adds a natural, narrative tone-often softening a statement or explanation.
- "Seein’ as how you’re up, grab the coffee pot." → since you’re already awake.
- "Seein’ as how we’re neighbors, I thought I’d stop by." → because we’re neighbors.
- "Seein’ as how you ain’t hungry, I’ll save it." → since you’re not hungry.