Iie
romaji, polite
In romaji, the Japanese word for "no" is Iie. The casual form is Iya, and Chigau means "that is not right".
Meaning: no, a negative answer (adverb)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Note |
|---|---|
| Iie | romaji, polite |
| Iya | romaji, casual |
| Chigau | romaji, that is wrong |
Iie is used to answer no to a question, and also to say "not at all" after thanks. Iya is casual and can sound blunt. Chigau corrects a wrong statement, as in "that is different".
How does it change in a sentence?
To refuse an offer politely, say Kekkou desu, meaning "that is fine, no thank you".
When do people say it?
Japanese speakers often avoid a hard "no". They prefer softer answers such as Chotto… (a little…) or Muzukashii desu ne (it is difficult), which signal refusal indirectly.
Did you know?
- Some learners think the word Hai always means "yes", but in Japanese it can only mean "I hear you", and the speaker may still say no afterwards.
Examples in context
- Iie, chigaimasu.No, that is not right.
- Iya, mada desu.No, not yet.
- Kekkou desu.No thank you.
Example conversation
Waiter Taro offers dessert to the guest Emma at a restaurant.
- TaroDezaato wa ikaga desu ka.Would you like dessert?
- EmmaIie, kekkou desu.No, thank you.
- TaroKashikomarimashita.Certainly.
