How to say "Yes" in Japanese

Meaning

A standard, neutral way to say 'yes' in Japanese, suitable for most situations.

Usage

はい (hai) is the most common and neutral way to say 'yes' in Japanese. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In very casual speech, people might use うん (un) or ええ (ee), but these are less formal. When responding to a question, it is often accompanied by a nod or a slight bow in formal settings.

Example sentences

• Do you understand?

  わかりますか？ はい、わかります。

• Is this your book?

  これはあなたの本ですか？ はい、そうです。

Related expressions

• ええee— A casual or slightly hesitant 'yes,' often used in informal speech.

  More relaxed than はい, but still polite. Common among friends or peers.

• うんun— A very casual 'yeah,' used among close friends or in informal settings.

  Avoid using this in formal or respectful contexts.

• そうですsō desu— A more emphatic 'yes,' meaning 'that's right' or 'correct.'

  Used to confirm information or agree strongly.