This Here

In 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.

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #DialectandGrammar #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...

If somebody's pointing somethin' out, it'll almost always be 'this here' or 'that there.'

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.

variations: that there (cousin phrase), this one here, right here, this here truck, this here mess, 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. ★

Origin and Etymology

Rooted 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.

Usage Notes

Still 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 Southerner

Said plain: "this heer." In quick speech, it runs together as "this-’ere."

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does "this here" mean something different from "this"?

No - it just adds emphasis or color.

Is it only Southern?

Strongest in Southern and Appalachian speech, though rural speakers elsewhere may use it too.

Do people still say it today?

Yes - especially in country or family talk, where plain speech carries on.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 7). This Here. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/this-here
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "This Here." HillbillySlang.com, 7 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/this-here.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "This Here." HillbillySlang.com. September 7, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/this-here.

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