ええ

ee
adjectiveinterjectionBeginner
informal

Good, fine, or okay (used to express agreement, approval, or satisfaction)

ええ、そうします。

Okay, I'll do that.

このケーキはええね。

This cake is good.

💡

Often used in casual conversation to agree or express satisfaction.

informal

Yes (used as a response to a question or request)

明日も来ますか? ええ。

Will you come tomorrow? Yes.

💡

A softer and more polite way to say "yes" compared to "はい" (hai).

Collocations

ええ感じgood vibeええやつgood guy

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

ええんじゃない?phrase
Isn't it okay?
ええかげんにしろphrase
Cut it out (literally 'do it properly')

💡Pro Tip

Casual vs. Formal

Use "ええ" in informal settings with friends or family. For formal situations, "はい" (hai) is more appropriate.

Gold Rule

Tone Matters

The tone can change the meaning—neutral for agreement, slightly rising for surprise, or drawn out for emphasis.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the adjective "良い" (ii, meaning 'good'), softened for casual use.

📝Usage Notes

Used in informal contexts, often with a slightly softer or more casual tone than "はい" (hai). Can also express mild surprise or agreement.

Word Breakdown

softening prefix
prefix
+
softening suffix
suffix
和英辞典