元気です
genki desu
In Japanese, the phrase "I am great" is expressed as 元気です (genki desu).
A response used to say that you are healthy and doing well when someone asks how you are.
What does it mean word for word?
The word genki literally refers to one's spirit, energy or vital force.
Which one should you use?
While 元気です can be translated as "I am great," it is more commonly used to mean "I am well" or "I am healthy" in response to a greeting.
How does it change in a sentence?
The addition of desu makes the phrase polite and suitable for use with strangers or superiors.
How do you pronounce it?
genki desu
When do people say it?
When responding to someone asking how you are, it is natural to prefix your response with はい (yes) to acknowledge the question, as in はい、元気です (Yes, I am great).
Did you know?
- While 元気です expresses wellness, Japanese speakers often respond to 'how are you' with a phrase meaning 'I am healthy' or 'I am fine' even if they are feeling slightly unwell, as a way to maintain social harmony.
- The character 元 in 元気 is also used in the word 'origin' or 'source'. This implies that being 'great' or 'well' is a state of returning to your original, healthy source of energy.
- In some contexts, saying 元気 can be used as an encouraging cheer to tell someone to 'be strong' or 'cheer up' during a difficult time.
Examples in context
- はい、元気です。Hai, genki desu.Yes, I am great.
- おかげさまで元気です。Okagesama de genki desu.I am doing well, thanks to you.
Example conversation
Two friends meet at a cafe after a long time.
- 陽太 Yota陽葵さん、お久しぶりです！元気ですか？Himari-san, ohishashiburi desu! Genki desu ka?Himari, long time no see! How are you?
- 陽葵 Himariはい、私はとても元気です。Hai, watashi wa totemo genki desu.Yes, I am doing great.
- 陽太 Yotaそれはよかったですね。Sore wa yokatta desu ne.That's good to hear.
- 陽葵 Himari陽太さんはどうですか？Youta-san wa dou desu ka?How about you, Youta?
