Eh vs. Hey — What's the Difference?

"Eh" is a versatile interjection in English, often used to express indifference, confusion, solicitation of agreement, or a request for someone to repeat themselves. On the other hand, "Hey" is a more dynamic expression used to grab someone's attention, greet someone informally, or express surprise.

While "eh" might be used at the end of a statement to turn it into a question or to show that the speaker is unsure, "hey" is often used at the beginning of a sentence to address someone directly. For example, "That was a good movie, eh?" seeks affirmation, whereas "Hey, did you see that movie?" is a direct question aiming to engage the listener.

In terms of communication, "eh" can soften a statement, making it less direct and more open to discussion. It can indicate the speaker's openness to other opinions or need for clarification. Conversely, "hey" is more about establishing connection and engagement, often signaling the start of a conversation or drawing attention to a specific point or event.

The use of "eh" is notably prevalent in Canadian English, where it's seen as a marker of Canadian identity, serving various linguistic functions. Meanwhile, "hey" is widely used in English-speaking cultures around the world, with its usage and acceptance varying across different contexts and regions.

"Eh" reflects a passive or questioning stance in conversation, inviting input or clarification from others, while "hey" is proactive and assertive, often used to initiate interactions or express strong emotions.