元気ではありません
genki dewa arimasen
In Japanese, "I am not fine" is expressed as 元気ではありません (genki dewa arimasen).
This phrase is a polite way to state that you are not feeling well or are not in a good state, often used in response to 'O-genki desu ka?' (How are you?).
What does it mean word for word?
The word 元気 literally refers to one's energy, vigor or vitality.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the negative polite form of the copula 'desu', which is 'dewa arimasen'.
How do you pronounce it?
genki dewa arimasen
Did you know?
- The characters for 元気 literally combine 'source' or 'origin' and 'spirit'. In a historical context, this refers to the primordial energy that flows through all living things.
- If you say 元気ではありません to a stranger or acquaintance, they may interpret it as a signal that you are experiencing a personal crisis or deep sadness rather than just a physical ailment.
- If you are feeling physically ill, it is much more common to use the word 具合 (guai), which refers to one's 'condition', rather than using 元気 (genki) which refers to 'vigor'.
Examples in context
- ごめんなさい、私は元気ではありません。Sorry, I am not well.
- もっと悪くなった。I have become worse.
- 今日はあまり元気ではありません。Kyō wa amari genki de wa arimasen.I am not feeling very well today.
Example conversation
Yota and Himari meet at school in the morning.
- 陽葵 Himari陽太くん、おはよう！元気？Yōta-kun, ohayō! Genki?Good morning, Yota! Are you doing well?
- 陽太 Yotaおはよう。実は、あまり元気ではありません。Ohayō. Jitsu wa, amari genki dewa arimasen.Morning. Actually, I am not feeling very well.
- 陽葵 Himari大丈夫？顔色が悪いよ。Daijōbu? Kaoiro ga warui yo.Are you okay? You look pale.
- 陽太 Yota少し頭が痛いんだ。Sukoshi atama ga itai nda.I have a bit of a headache.
