How to say "No" in Japanese

Meaning

A word used to give a negative answer or refusal.

Usage

いいえ is the standard Japanese word for 'no.' It can be used in both casual and polite contexts, but in formal situations, it may sound slightly stiff. For softer refusals, consider using ううん (uun) or いや (iya) in casual speech. In written Japanese, いいえ is commonly used, while 否 (hi) is a more formal written alternative.

Example sentences

• Do you want to go to the park?

  公園に行きたいですか？ → いいえ、行きたくないです。

• Is this your book?

  これはあなたの本ですか？ → いいえ、私のではありません。

Related expressions

• ううんuun— A casual, soft 'no,' often used in informal speech.

  More common among friends and younger speakers.

• いやiya— A casual refusal or disagreement, similar to 'nope.'

  Can sound abrupt; best used with close acquaintances.

• いいえ、結構ですiie, kekkō desu— No, thank you (polite refusal of an offer).

  Common in polite contexts, e.g., declining food or drinks.