What does it mean word for word?
The phrase どういたしまして is a combination of dō (how/in what way) and itashimashite, which is the polite te-form of the humble verb itasu (to do).
Which one should you use?
While どういたしまして is the standard textbook response, Japanese speakers in casual conversation are much more likely to say いえいえ (no, no) to dismiss a thank-you. If you wish to express a higher degree of humility, such as "It was nothing at all" or "Don't mention it", the phrase とんでもないです is a more natural and polite alternative.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
どういたしまして is a polite form, but it is important to note that it can sometimes feel slightly formal or even patronizing depending on the social hierarchy. In business settings, it is often better to use more humble expressions of service or simply acknowledge the thanks with a bow.
How do you pronounce it?
dōitashimashite
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often over-use どういたしまして in business settings.
Did you know?
- The word いたす inside どういたしまして is a humble verb specifically designed to lower the speaker's own status to elevate the person they are talking to.
- In Japanese business culture, the most effective way to say 'it is my pleasure' is often not to say anything at all, but to accompany a simple nod or a formal bow. This non-verbal acknowledgement is frequently more polite than any spoken phrase.
- While English speakers often say 'you are welcome' repeatedly, Japanese speakers frequently use いえいえ to literally deny that they did anything worthy of thanks.
Examples in context
- どういたしまして、お手伝いできて光栄です。You're welcome, I am honored to be of assistance.
- いえいえ、どういたしまして。Ieie, douitashimashite.No no, it was my pleasure.
- 助かりました。どういたしまして。Tasukarimashita. Douitashimashite.It was a big help. You're welcome.
Example conversation
Kenta thanks Himari for helping him with his luggage.
- 健太 Kenta荷物を運んでくれてありがとう。Nimotsu o hakonde kurete arigato.Thank you for carrying my luggage.
- 陽葵 Himariどういたしまして。Douitashimashite.It is my pleasure.
- 健太 Kenta本当に助かったよ。Hontou ni tasukatta yo.You really helped me out.
- 陽葵 Himariいいえ、大丈夫ですよ。Iie, daijoubu desu yo.No, it was no problem.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry どういたしまして, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
