Whether you’re planning a wedding, attending a ceremony, or simply want to learn some basic Japanese phrases, knowing how to say “Yes, I do” in Japanese can be incredibly useful. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to express this phrase. While regional variations exist, we will primarily focus on standard Japanese. So, let’s dive in and discover how to say “Yes, I do” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Yes, I Do” in Japanese
When it comes to formal situations such as weddings or official ceremonies, it’s important to use the appropriate level of politeness. In Japanese, you express formality through different verb endings and respectful vocabulary. To say “Yes, I do” formally, you can use the phrase “Hai, watashi wa shimasu” (はい、私はします) which translates directly to “Yes, I will do it.” Let’s break it down:
- Hai (はい) – This is the simple and polite way to say “Yes.”
- Watashi (私) – This means “I” or “me.”
- Wa (は) – This particle indicates the subject of the sentence, emphasizing “I.”
- Shimasu (します) – This is the polite form of the verb “to do.”
Informal Way to Say “Yes, I Do” in Japanese
In more casual situations, such as conversing with friends or family, a less formal approach can be used. For an informal way to say “Yes, I do,” you can opt for the phrase “Un, yaru” (うん、やる). Here’s what it means:
- Un (うん) – This is the informal and short version of “Yes.”
- Yaru (やる) – This is a casual way to say “to do.”
Tips and Examples
1. Pronunciation: Japanese pronunciation may be different from what you’re used to. Remember to speak each syllable distinctly and avoid blending sounds together.
2. Intonation: Pay attention to the rising intonation at the end of the phrase when saying “Hai” (はい) or “Un” (うん) to indicate that you are affirming or agreeing.
Formal Examples:
1. When someone asks you if you accept an invitation:
Person A: 結婚式に出席していただけますか？ (Kekkonshiki ni shusseki shite itadakemasu ka?) – Will you attend the wedding ceremony?
You: はい、私はします。 (Hai, watashi wa shimasu.) – Yes, I will do it.2. During a wedding ceremony:
Officiant: この結婚を認めますか？ (Kono kekkon o mitomemasu ka?) – Do you accept this marriage?
Bride/Groom: はい、私はします。 (Hai, watashi wa shimasu.) – Yes, I will do it.
Informal Examples:
1. When confirming plans with a friend:
Friend A: 明日、一緒に映画を見に行こう！ (Ashita, issho ni eiga o mi ni ikou!) – Let’s go watch a movie together tomorrow!
You: うん、やるよ。 (Un, yaru yo.) – Yeah, let’s do it.2. Agreeing with a sibling’s suggestion:
Sibling: 一緒に夏休みに海に行こうよ！ (Isshoni natsuyasumi ni umi ni ikou yo!) – Let’s go to the beach together during summer vacation!
You: うん、やろう！ (Un, yarou!) – Yeah, let’s do it!
Remember, adapting your language based on the situation and relationships is vital in Japanese culture. Whether you opt for the formal or informal way of saying “Yes, I do,” always consider the level of politeness and the context of the conversation!
