   This HereIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "this here" is used for emphasis, meaning "this" or "this right here." It’s plain country grammar that adds flavor and focus to everyday talk. Hillbilly Dude Says...  If somebody's pointing somethin' out, it'll almost always be 'this here' or 'that there.' Pronunciation[THIS heer] Meaning & Usage- Emphatic "this" (adjective phrase)
Mae:
Which one’s yours?
Earl:
This here mule - stubborn as he looks.other spellings: that there (cousin phrase), this one here, right here, this here truck, this here mess, and that there dog ★ Adding "here" or "there" after "this" and "that" is a hallmark of country talk. It gives speech a little extra weight and color without changing the meaning. ★ OriginRooted in nonstandard English patterns that stuck in rural Southern and Appalachian speech. "This here" and "that there" have been around for centuries, carried forward in everyday talk. NotesStill common in Southern and Appalachian speech. Rare in formal English, but instantly recognizable as country flavor. "That there" works the same way for emphasis. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "this heer." In quick speech, it runs together as "this-’ere." | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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