はい、先生
hai, sensei
yes, sensei in Japanese is expressed as はい、先生 (hai, sensei).
This phrase is used to acknowledge instructions or confirm understanding when speaking to a teacher, doctor or professor. The word 先生 translates to teacher or instructor.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 'hai' (yes) and 'sensei' (teacher/master).
Which one should you use?
While はい、先生 is a standard and formal way to say 'Yes, Sensei', you can use はい、お師匠様 to show a higher level of respect. Conversely, using 'un' instead of 'hai' (as in うん、先生) makes the affirmation informal and is generally inappropriate when addressing a teacher.
How do you pronounce it?
hai, sensei
What mistakes should you avoid?
Using 'un' instead of 'hai' makes the affirmation informal and is generally inappropriate when addressing a teacher.
Did you know?
- While 先生 is a respectful title, it is rarely used to refer to oneself. A teacher would never call themselves a 先生 when introducing themselves, as doing so would be seen as arrogant.
- The word 先生 actually means 'born before' or 'one who came before', reflecting the deep respect for those who have already gained experience.
- In Japanese martial arts, responding with はい is often accompanied by a sharp, decisive nod to demonstrate mental focus and readiness.
Examples in context
- はい、先生。分かりました。Hai, sensei. Wakarimashita.Yes, sensei. I understand.
- はい、先生。すぐやります。Hai, sensei. Sugu yarimasu.Yes, sensei. I will do it right away.
- はい、先生。その通りです。Hai, sensei. Sono toori desu.Yes, sensei. That is correct.
Example conversation
A student is responding to a teacher's instruction in class.
- 陽葵 Himari蓮君、この本を読んでください。Ren-kun, kono hon o yonde kudasai.Ren, please read this book.
- 蓮 Renはい、先生。Hai, sensei.Yes, teacher.
- 陽葵 Himariいいですよ。始めてください。Ii desu yo. Hajimete kudasai.Good. Please begin.
- 蓮 Renはい、始めます。Hai, hajimemasu.Yes, I'll start.
