Guide: How to Say “I am Happy to Hear That” in Japanese

Greetings! In this guide, we will explore various ways to express the phrase “I am happy to hear that” in Japanese. Whether you’re looking to communicate formally or informally, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive right in!

Formal Expressions:

When expressing your happiness in a formal setting, it is essential to use polite language. Here are a few options:

1. Yorokonde imasu: This phrase directly translates to “I am happy,” and it is appropriate for formal situations. It displays respectful behavior and demonstrates your genuine joy in hearing the news or information.
2. Kikasete itadakite ureshii desu: This longer phrase is a polite way to express your happiness upon receiving new information. It conveys a sense of gratitude for being allowed to hear the news personally.
3. O-medetō gozaimasu: This expression means “Congratulations.” While primarily used to celebrate joyous occasions, it can also be applied to express delight when receiving positive news. It is commonly used in formal settings.

Informal Expressions:

When conversing with close friends, family members, or in casual situations, you can use more relaxed language to express your happiness. Here are a few options:

1. Ureshii: This simple and commonly used word translates to “happy.” It is used in various situations to express joy, including when you are happy to hear something.
2. Yatta!: This exclamation means “I did it!” or “Hooray!” When used to convey happiness in response to someone’s good news, it expresses your own excitement and enthusiasm.
3. Dōmo: This versatile word can be translated as “thanks,” “hello,” or “sorry.” However, in an informal context where someone shares positive news, you can also use it to express your happiness for them.

Tips and Examples:

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you understand and utilize the expressions we’ve discussed:

1. Context Matters: Pay attention to the context of the conversation and choose the appropriate phrase accordingly. The relationship between you and the person you are speaking to, as well as the formality of the situation, will dictate the most suitable expression to use. 2. Tone of Voice: Remember that the tone of your voice and facial expressions play an essential role in conveying your emotions. Even if you use the right words, your happiness might not come across if your tone and expressions don’t align. 3. Practice Makes Perfect: Take time to practice these phrases in different contexts. This will help you become more comfortable using them, allowing for smoother and more natural conversations. Now, let’s explore a few examples to illustrate how these expressions can be used in different situations:

Formal Example:

Imagine your colleague shares some good news with you about their promotion. You can respond by saying, “Yorokonde imasu. Omedetō gozaimasu!” This shows formal appreciation and offers congratulations on their achievement.

Informal Example:

Suppose your friend tells you they got accepted into their dream university. In a more relaxed context, you can respond with “Ureshii! Omedetō!” or simply “Yatta!” to express your excitement and happiness for their accomplishment.