phrase · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot
Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.
Sound
Pronunciation
Each Play button uses your device's default local English voice, or a natural local fallback. The selected voice name appears after playback. This is synthesized speech, not a source recording.
Received-Pronunciation:/haʊ ˈɑː juː/
General-American:/haʊ ˈɑɹ ju/
US:Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.
Australian:/hæɔ ˈaː jʉː/
Australian:/hæɔ ˈaː jə/
Australia:Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.
1
phrase
Meaning 1
An informal greeting, not requiring a literal response. In form a question, and thus followed by a question mark. Typical responses include
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: idiomatic
Examples
I'm very well, thank you. How are you? (formal) I'm fine, thank you. / Fine, thanks. (informal) / Fine, and you? (informal)
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
2
phrase
Meaning 2
(Following a noun phrase; stress on are) An expression of derision, that the preceding referent is unworthy of the name. In form of an exclamation, and thus often followed by an exclamation mark.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: Ireland, idiomatic
Examples
1967 July 20: Questions. Oral Answers. — Free Travel for Old Age Pensioners. Dáil Éireann debates Mr. Dunne: "A small point", says the Minister for Justice. Mr. Ryan: Justice, how are you! He would not recognise it in this world or the next.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
History
Etymology
No etymology was provided for this word.
Across languages
Translations
409 source translations are retained for this English entry.