The origins of this little word are many and varied–a Choctaw Native American word, a fad for comical incorrect spellings, and a political slogan for Martin Van Buren.
Okay can be used as an interjection, noun, verb, adjective, adverb, answer to a question, and as the abbreviation for Oklahoma.
But how do you spell this little word—okay, OK, o.k., or ok—in your writing?
What’s your take? How do you okay?
Always remember, the only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
I am loving all of your comments. You guys are so clever and creative. Excellent!
Okay, I didn’t realize Martin Van Buren ran for president in 1940. I thought he was dead 99 years earlier.
OK, did I miss something?
Otay, what about Eddie Murphy?
Oh schitt–Never mind.
Thanks, John. I edited the video and put Martin Van Buren where he belongs.
OK, OK, I get it. It’s okay to use OK, but it’s better to be OK with okay. While I’m personally okay with OK, I stand with those who prefer to use the spelled-out OK. Okay already.
In any case, okay seems so noncommittal and dispassionate, kinda meh, and flavorless like milquetoast. It’s not great or horrible, but just okay.
Does it really matter? Isn’t language meant to convey a message? So here is my thought. In the world of words, there’s a trio we say, “O.K.,” “okay,” and “OK” every day. But which one to choose? Oh, what a plight, To get it just right, in the day or the night. “O.K.” with its dots, so formal and neat, A nod to the past, a linguistic treat. “Okay” feels friendly, casual, and kind, A word that brings ease to the wandering mind. Then there’s “OK,” so simple and brief, Two letters that often bring sweet relief. But when to… Read more »
Love that you made a poem of your answer! Nicely done.
. . . and I will go with okay from now on in any written stories. You definitely impacted my decision on the issue.
Betty, your poem is delightful!
Thanks, Betty. Your witty poem is an early Christmas present.
Good Morning Patricia, I don’t think I have ever written OK or okay, but after listening, okay makes the most sense to me. And I love the tidbit about the Choctaw (which I always want to write with a K) Indians. Thanks for straightening that out!! :)…Connie
Okay! Love it.