What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 結構です literally means "it is fine" or "it is sufficient".
Which one should you use?
The meaning of 結構です depends on context: when used alone, it can function as an affirmative to say something is sufficient or acceptable, but when preceded by いいえ, it functions as a polite way to say "no, thank you".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form 結構です is polite and suitable for use with strangers or in professional settings. For a more formal way to decline an invitation, request or proposition, you can use お断りします. If you need to express a more apologetic refusal, such as "I'm sorry, but I must decline", use 残念ですが、お断りさせていただきます. In informal settings, you might say いや、やめとく (No, I'll pass) or even 絶対無理 (absolutely impossible), which can be used humorously.
How does it change in a sentence?
To soften a refusal and make it sound less blunt, you can use the word 難しい (it's difficult) or the phrase ちょっと難しいかもしれない (it might be a little difficult).
How do you pronounce it?
iie, kekkō desu
Did you know?
- The word 結構 originally referred to a building or structure that was well-constructed and splendid.
- Japanese speakers often avoid using いいえ entirely when refusing, preferring to leave the sentence unfinished to let the listener infer the 'no'.
- When using 結構です to decline, Japanese people often combine it with a small wave of the hand in front of the chest to visually signal 'no'.
Examples in context
- 結構です、ありがとうございます。No, thank you. I'm good.
- お茶をもう一杯いかがですか？」「いいえ、結構です。」Ocha o mou ippai ikaga desu ka? Iie, kekkou desu.Would you like another cup of tea? No, thank you.
- 「お会計は私が。」「いいえ、結構です。別々にしましょう。」"Okaikei wa watashi ga." "Iie, kekkou desu. Betsubetsu ni shimashou."I'll pay for the bill. No, thank you. Let's pay separately.
Example conversation
At a cafe, a waiter offers a dessert to a customer.
- 大翔 Hirotoデザートはいかがですか？Dezaato wa ikaga desu ka?Would you like some dessert?
- 陽葵 Himariいいえ、結構です。Iie, kekkou desu.No, thank you.
- 大翔 Hirotoかしこまりました。Kashikomarimashita.Understood.
- 陽葵 Himariお会計をお願いします。Okaikei o onegaishimasu.The check, please.
