All Y’all
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "all y’all" is the emphatic plural of "y’all," used to make sure everyone in a group is included. It’s a hallmark of Southern grammar and hospitality.
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'All y’all' is more specific - it's not just everbody. It's EVERYBODY. 'All y’all' is more specific - it's not just everbody. It's EVERYBODY. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Emphatic plural of "y’all" (pronoun phrase)
Is this for just us?No - it’s for all y’all.- Used for clarity or emphasis when addressing a whole group (pronoun phrase)
Who needs to sign?All y’all sign at the bottom, please.Origin and Etymology
"Y’all" itself comes from "you all." Adding "all" to "y’all" for emphasis appears in 19th-century Southern writing and oral histories. It reflects the region’s love of clarity and friendly inclusiveness.
Usage Notes
Still widely used across the South and Appalachia today. Outside the region it’s recognized as Southern but less common in actual speech. In jokes and memes it’s one of the best-known Southern expressions.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it smooth: "all y’all." The first word "all" is stressed, then "y’all" rolls right after. Often drawn out in friendly speech: "Aaaall y’all."