ja, das ist es
The English phrase "yes, it is" is translated into German as ja, das ist es.
ja, das ist es is used to confirm that a specific thing is the correct one being discussed.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In parts of Southern Germany, you may hear Ja, freilich used to say "Yes, of course" in a formal context, similar to how one would use Ja, selbstverständlich.
Did you know?
- The particle ja can also be used mid-sentence to mean 'as you know', such as in 'Das ist ja gut', which changes the entire tone of the confirmation.
- If a German speaker says ja with a rising intonation, it can actually function as a question or a sign of doubt rather than a confirmation.
- The word ja is a cognate of the Yiddish word יאָ (yo).
Examples in context
- Ja, das ist es.Yes, that is it.
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are looking for a specific book on a shelf.
- SarahIst das das Buch, das du suchst?Is this the book you are looking for?
- LukasJa, das ist es!Yes, it is!
- SarahSoll ich es für dich nehmen?Should I get it for you?
- LukasNein, ich schaffe das selbst.No, I can manage myself.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries das, es, ja, CC BY-SA 4.0.
