Introduction
Learning how to say “yes” and “no” correctly is one of the most essential parts of mastering Japanese conversation. However, simply translating “yes” to “hai” and “no” to “iie” is not enough. In Japanese culture, the way you agree or disagree must match the situation, the relationship between speakers, and the social context.
In this guide, you will learn various polite ways to say “yes” and “no” in Japanese, including subtle alternatives often used in daily conversations. By the end, you’ll sound more natural, respectful, and culturally aware when communicating in Japanese.
Let’s dive in!
How to Say “Yes” in Japanese
1. はい (Hai) – “Yes”
Hai is the most direct and standard way to say “yes.”
When to use:
- Formal and casual conversations
- Agreeing with a statement
- Answering a question politely
Example:
- “Kore wa anata no kasa desu ka?” (Is this your umbrella?)
- “Hai, sou desu.” (Yes, it is.)
Tip:
- When saying “hai,” a slight nod or bow makes it more polite.
2. ええ (Ee) – “Yeah” or “Uh-huh”
Ee is a softer, casual form of “yes.”
When to use:
- With friends, family, or equals
- In informal conversations
Example:
- “Ashita issho ni iku?” (Are you coming with me tomorrow?)
- “Ee, iku yo.” (Yeah, I’ll go.)
Note: Saying “ee” too formally may sound strange. Stick with “hai” for business or formal settings.
3. うん (Un) – “Yep”
Un is even more casual, equivalent to “yep” or “uh-huh” in English.
When to use:
- Between close friends
- Text messages, casual chats
Example:
- “Genki?” (Are you doing well?)
- “Un, genki.” (Yep, I’m good.)
Tip: Say “un” with a slight hum-like tone to sound natural.
4. Polite Acknowledgments
In Japanese conversations, sometimes people respond with acknowledgments instead of just “yes.”
Useful phrases:
- Sou desu (そうです) – That’s right.
- Sou desu ne (そうですね) – That’s right, isn’t it?
- Wakarimashita (わかりました) – I understand.
Example:
- “Ashita kaigi wa juuji desu.” (The meeting is at 10 tomorrow.)
- “Wakarimashita.” (Understood.)
5. Using Body Language
In Japan, non-verbal agreement is common.
- A slight bow
- Nodding while saying “hai”
- Smiling gently
Tip: Using respectful body language while saying “yes” enhances politeness.
How to Say “No” in Japanese
1. いいえ (Iie) – “No”
Iie is the direct way to say “no,” but it can sound a little harsh if not softened.
When to use:
- Formal situations
- Politely declining
Example:
- “Kore wa anata no kasa desu ka?” (Is this your umbrella?)
- “Iie, chigaimasu.” (No, it’s not.)
Tip: Use a soft tone and slight bow when saying “iie” to avoid sounding rude.
2. ううん (Uun) – “Nope”
Uun is a casual, gentle way to say “no.”
When to use:
- With friends, family, or peers
- Informal conversations
Example:
- “Ashita eiga ni iku?” (Want to go to the movies tomorrow?)
- “Uun, mada yotei nai.” (Nope, I don’t have plans yet.)
Tip: Shake your head slightly when saying “uun.”
3. Indirect Ways to Say “No”
Japanese culture often values avoiding direct rejection. Here are more polite alternatives:
Common phrases:
- Chotto… (ちょっと…) – Literally means “a little,” but often implies “no.”
- Kangaete okimasu (考えておきます) – I’ll think about it.
- Mou sukoshi kangaete mo ii desu ka? (もう少し考えてもいいですか？) – Can I think a bit more?
Example:
- “Ashita wa aitemasu ka?” (Are you free tomorrow?)
- “Chotto…” (Hesitating, implying no.)
4. Apologizing When Saying “No”
Adding an apology softens rejection.
Useful phrases:
- Sumimasen (すみません) – I’m sorry.
- Moushiwake arimasen (申し訳ありません) – I sincerely apologize.
Example:
- “Sumimasen, chotto youji ga arimasu.” (I’m sorry, I have something else to do.)
Contextual Usage of “Yes” and “No”
1. In Business Situations
In business, clarity and politeness are key.
Accepting:
- “Hai, yoroshiku onegaishimasu.” (Yes, thank you in advance.)
- “Wakarimashita.” (Understood.)
Declining:
- “Sumimasen ga, muri desu.” (I’m sorry, but it’s impossible.)
- “Kento sasete itadakimasu.” (Let me consider it.)
2. In Daily Conversations
Casual settings allow softer tones.
Accepting:
- “Ee, ii yo!” (Yeah, sure!)
Declining:
- “Uun, chotto muzukashii.” (Nope, a bit difficult.)
3. In Formal Ceremonies
Formal language, known as keigo, is preferred.
Example:
- “Hai, gozaimasu.” (Yes, there is.)
- “Iie, arimasen.” (No, there isn’t.)
Quick Table: Saying “Yes” and “No” in Japanese
| English | Japanese | Usage | Formality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Hai (はい) | Standard yes | Formal/Casual |
| Yeah | Ee (ええ) | Casual yes | Informal |
| Yep | Un (うん) | Very casual | Informal |
| No | Iie (いいえ) | Standard no | Formal |
| Nope | Uun (ううん) | Casual no | Informal |
| Maybe | Chotto… (ちょっと…) | Indirect no | Polite |
| I’ll think about it | Kangaete okimasu | Indirect refusal | Polite |
Body Language Tips for Saying “Yes” and “No”
- When saying “yes”: Slight bow, smile, and nod.
- When saying “no”: Gentle head shake, apologetic tone, and small bow.
Non-verbal communication is extremely important in Japanese culture. Matching body language with words shows sincerity.
FAQ
Is “iie” too strong in Japanese?
Sometimes, yes. In casual or sensitive situations, people prefer indirect ways like “chotto…” or apologizing before refusing.
Can I use “un” and “uun” with my boss?
No. Use “hai” and “iie” in professional settings. “Un” and “uun” are too casual.
What’s the best way to politely refuse an invitation?
Use “Sumimasen, chotto…” followed by a polite excuse.
Is nodding important when saying “hai”?
Yes! Nodding while saying “hai” shows attentiveness and respect.
What if I’m unsure and don’t want to say “yes” or “no”?
Use “Mou sukoshi kangaete mo ii desu ka?” (Can I think about it a bit more?)
Conclusion
Saying “yes” and “no” in Japanese involves much more than vocabulary. It’s about matching your words to the situation, showing respect, and understanding the cultural nuances.
Practice using “hai” and “iie” properly in formal settings, and use casual variations like “ee” and “un” among friends. If you’re ever unsure, it’s perfectly acceptable to respond gently with “chotto…” and show sincerity through body language.
By mastering these small but powerful expressions, you’ll be able to navigate Japanese conversations smoothly, respectfully, and naturally!
