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They Law!

In Appalachian and Southern talk, "They law!" is a strong exclamation of surprise, disbelief, or amazement. It’s close to saying "You’re kidding!" or "Mercy me!"

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #Southern   #Exclamations

Hillbilly Dude Says...
You can still here 'they law!' these days, but it's definitely more rural I'd say. 
Hillbilly Dude Says...
You can still here 'they law!' these days, but it's definitely more rural I'd say. 

Pronunciation

[THAY law]

Meaning & Usage

- Exclamation of surprise or disbelief (interjection)

Mae:
They sold the farm overnight.
Earl:
They law! I never thought I’d see the day.
variations: mercy! well, I declare! you’re kidding! ain’t that somethin’
★ "They law!" is for when something truly shocks you. It’s stronger than just "They," and carries the same kind of punch as "Well, I’ll be" or "Mercy!" ★

Origin and Etymology

Likely a blend of the clipped exclamation "They!" with the old Southern/Appalachian habit of calling on "law" or "the law" as a softened oath - much like "Law, have mercy." Over time, "They law!" stuck as a colorful reaction phrase.

Usage Notes

Still alive in Appalachian talk, though outsiders may find it puzzling. Tone and body language are key - it’s less about the words themselves and more about the emotional punch behind them.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said quick with punch: "They law!" The "law" adds weight, turning a mild "They" into a full-on reaction of shock or amazement.

Kin Topics

Related Pages

Common Questions

Does "They law!" have to do with actual law or police?
Nope. It’s just an old-fashioned exclamation, not about legal matters.
How is it different from "They"?
"They" is mild - surprise or admiration. "They law!" is much stronger, for real shock or disbelief.
Is it still used today?
Yes, especially among older generations in Appalachia and the South.
Is "They law!" unique to Appalachia?
It’s most common in Appalachian and Southern speech, though similar expressions show up in older rural English.

How to Cite This Page

  • APA (7th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 8). They Law! . HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/they-law
  • MLA (9th edition)
    "The Hillbilly Dude." "They Law! ." HillbillySlang.com, 8 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/they-law.
  • Chicago (17th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. "They Law! ." HillbillySlang.com. September 8, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/they-law.
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