The Phrase 'Hear Hear': Meaning and Usage in Modern and Historical Contexts

In the realm of language, the phrase ldquo;hear hearrdquo; is a versatile tool for expressing agreement and appreciation. It has a long and diverse history, rooted in the origins of parliamentary procedure and evolving to become a common expression in everyday communication.

What Does 'Hear Hear' Mean?

At its core, the phrase ldquo;hear hearrdquo; means to listen or to agree.

A Historical Perspective

Originally, ldquo;hear hearrdquo; was used to announce an important announcement to a group of people. In a feudal village setting, for example, someone might yell ldquo;hear hearrdquo; to get everyonersquo;s attention before making a statement. This practice dates back to the 17th century, with the first recorded use in the British House of Commons.

The House of Commons Example

In the context of the House of Commons, ldquo;hear hearrdquo; is an imperative used to attract attention. For instance, if a Member of Parliament (MP) wanted to draw attention to a statement, they might say, ldquo;Hear him/hear her.rdquo; This practice eventually evolved into the phrase ldquo;hear hearrdquo; as a way of showing agreement.

Modern Usage

Today, ldquo;hear hearrdquo; is most commonly used to express strong agreement or to show appreciation. It functions as verbal applause in many social and professional settings. When someone says ldquo;hear hearrdquo; in response to a statement, they are indicating that they strongly agree with the speaker.

Examples in Context

Example 1: In a review or critique, when someone agrees with a positive statement, they might say ldquo;hear hear.rdquo;

Statement: ldquo;Lord of the Rings Online is the best game ever.

Response: ldquo;Hear hear!

Example 2: During a speech or debate, the phrase can be used to show consensus among the audience.

Speech: ldquo;We must take action to protect the environment.

Audience: ldquo;Hear hear!

Example 3: In a more informal setting, ldquo;hear hearrdquo; can be used to express agreement with a personal statement or opinion.

Statement: ldquo;My mother who taught fourth grade for 30 years and became heartily sick of parents who insisted that she hand out high grades to undeserving kids in order not to damage their self-esteem says lsquo;hear ;

Response: ldquo;Hear hear!

A Linguistic Note

Itrsquo;s worth noting that ldquo;hear hearrdquo; is often used in a more emphatic and heightened manner. Itrsquo;s not just agreement but a form of emphatic endorsement or support.

Conclusion

From feudal announcements to modern-day expressions of agreement, ldquo;hear hearrdquo; has remained a powerful tool in communication. Its origins trace back to the British House of Commons, where it served to draw attention. Today, itrsquo;s a versatile phrase used in various contexts to show strong agreement and appreciation.