いえいえ
The Japanese phrase いえいえ is used to say "you're welcome (informal)".
いえいえ is used to downplay one's contribution, effectively communicating that the favor was no trouble at all. It functions as a way to say "no, no" or "don't mention it" to suggest that no special effort was made.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a repetition of the word いえ (no), so it literally translates to "no, no".
Which one should you use?
While どういたしまして is the standard textbook translation for "you're welcome", いえいえ is often more natural in casual, everyday conversation. Another casual option is いいよ, which translates to "It's fine" or "No problem".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
いえいえ is an informal way to respond to thanks and is suitable for use with friends, family or peers.
Did you know?
- When saying いえいえ, Japanese speakers often accompany the phrase with a small, rapid waving motion of the hand in front of their chest to visually 'brush away' the thanks.
- The textbook phrase どういたしまして is actually avoided by many native speakers because it can occasionally sound like the speaker is confirming they did something great.
- In Japanese culture, a common way to respond to a compliment or thanks is through self-deprecation, where you minimize your own achievement to show humility.
Examples in context
- いえいえ、全然大丈夫だよ。ieie, zenzen daijoubu da yo.No, no, it's totally fine.
- いえいえ、気にしないで。ieie, ki ni shinaide.No, no, don't worry about it.
- いえいえ、そんなことないよ。ieie, sonna koto nai yo.No, no, it was nothing.
Example conversation
Yui helps Hiroto carry a heavy box.
- 結衣 Yui荷物、運ぶの手伝うね。nimotsu, hakobu no tetsudau ne.I'll help you carry your luggage.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとう、助かるよ！arigatou, tasukaru yo!Thanks, that helps a lot!
- 結衣 Yuiいえいえ、全然いいよ。ieie, zenzen ii yo.No no, it's totally fine.
- 大翔 Hiroto結衣は本当に優しいな。Yui wa hontou ni yasashii na.Yui, you are really kind.
