If you aren’t from the south, you might be a bit confused about the word “y’all” and how and when to use it. But not to fear- I have created a set of guidelines in order to ensure that it is used properly.
Y’all is a very common word used in the south and particularly in Texas. Used as early as the 1800’s, (some say earlier, some say later) this word is a staple when it comes to the southern dialect of English.
First of all, let’s take a look at the spelling:
Y’all.
It's not "ya’ll" and definitely not "yawl." There is a big difference, and Southerners will automatically judge you if you spell it wrong.
Y’all is the combination of the words "you" and "all." It is used to address two or more people. For example:
“I’ll meet y’all at the stadium.” –Used when talking to a group of friends, but needing to stop at one more tailgate before the big UT game.
Contrary to logic, you can also use it when addressing a single person as well:
“I am going to HEB, do you want me to get y’all anything?”- Used when addressing a friend, but also looking for an excuse to spend some more time in the giant grocery store.
Another example, when making a statement:
“I don’t know about y’all, but I need another breakfast taco.” –Used when talking to no one in particular, but trying to make a statement that you can never have too many breakfast tacos.
Or you can use it at the end of a sentence like many Texans do, without any real purpose:
“I really love Whataburger, y’all”
“Y’all, I love Austin.”
Lastly, if "y'all" doesn’t address your audience well enough, you can use the phrase “alla y’all” Which really doesn’t alter the meaning whatsoever.
“Alla y’all better not eat all of the ranch, I need some for my pizza crust.”
Overall, y’all is a go-to word in any context for a Texan- they’re crazy for the word and use it anywhere and everywhere in a sentence. I recommend using it any chance you get because it’s the perfect word to better help you get your message across.
