What is the Meaning of the Expression
YOU BET?

What does it mean when one person asks a question, and the other person answers, “You bet!”?

for those learning to speak English as a Second, or Additional, Language (ESL or EAL)

Definition:

You bet means: certainly, absolutely, for sure! It is an enthusiastic way of saying “yes!”

Other ways of saying you bet:

– you can bet on it

– you betcha

– you bet your boots (less common)

– you bet your bottom (i.e., you can bet your bottom, or last, dollar)

Example 1:

Person 1: Will you be at the staff Christmas party?

Person 2: You bet I will! I never miss it. Every year the food is fantastic and the company gives out amazing Christmas gifts!

Example 2:

Person 1: Could I borrow your large roasting pan to cook the meat for the party? Mine is too small.

Person 2: You bet! Come over and get it anytime after work.

More English expressions and phrases