ja
[jäː]
The English phrase "ya" is translated into German as ja.
ja is used to agree with a statement or to answer a question. You can also use more expressive variations to convey agreement, such as ja, sicher to say "yes, of course" in a friendly manner or Na klar to mean "of course".
Which one should you use?
Klar is a colloquial way to say "sure" or "clear", whereas Na klar provides a slightly more emphatic way to say "of course".
Did you know?
- In German, the word ja can function as a 'modal particle' to add emphasis or express surprise, rather than just meaning 'yes'. For example, saying Das ist ja toll! translates more to 'That is actually great!' rather than 'That is yes great!'
- The phrase jawohl is a formal, emphatic version of ja often associated with military obedience. Using it in a casual setting can sound like a joke or an overly stiff salute.
- The German word ja is a direct linguistic relative of the English word 'yea', which is used in formal voting or archaic contexts.
Examples in context
- Stimmt, das ist eine wichtige Information.Correct, that is important information.
- "Klar, ich komme später vorbei."Sure, I'll come by later.
- Ja, das stimmt.Yes, that is true.
- Ja, ich bin bereit.Yes, I am ready.
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are planning a trip to the cinema.
- HannahMöchtest du heute ins Kino gehen?Do you want to go to the cinema today?
- LukasJa, das ist eine gute Idee.Yes, that is a good idea.
- HannahSollen wir den neuen Film sehen?Should we see the new movie?
- LukasJa, auf jeden Fall!Yes, definitely!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ja, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ja, CC BY-SA 4.0.
