Saying “no” in Japanese isn’t always as straightforward as in English. Japanese culture values politeness and indirect communication, so refusing something outright can sometimes sound too blunt or rude. Instead, there are several ways to express “no” depending on the situation, formality, and relationship with the person you’re speaking to.
In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say “no” in Japanese and when to use them naturally!
Direct Ways to Say No
Although direct refusals are less common in Japanese than in English, sometimes you need to be clear.
1. いいえ (Iie) – Standard “No”
“Iie” is the most direct and polite way to say “no” in Japanese. It’s often used in formal situations, responses to yes/no questions, or when correcting someone.
🔹 Example:
A: 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) – Can you speak English?
B: いいえ、話せません。(Iie, hanasemasen.) – No, I can’t.
⚠️ Note: While “iie” is grammatically correct, Japanese people often avoid it in daily conversation because it can sound too strong.
2. いや (Iya) – Informal “No” (Casual or Disgusted Tone)
“Iya” is a casual way to say no, but it can sound dismissive or annoyed, depending on your tone. It’s often used with close friends or in emotional reactions.
🔹 Example:
A: 一緒にカラオケ行かない？ (Issho ni karaoke ikanai?) – Want to go to karaoke together?
B: いや、行きたくない。(Iya, ikitakunai.) – Nah, I don’t want to go.
3. ダメ (Dame) – “No Good” / Not Allowed
“Dame” is a strong way to refuse or prohibit something. It’s often used to tell someone they shouldn’t do something or to reject an offer or action.
🔹 Example:
ここで写真を撮るのはダメです。
(Koko de shashin o toru no wa dame desu.)
Taking photos here is not allowed.
⚠️ Note: In casual situations, just saying “dame” can sound strict, so use it carefully.
Indirect and Polite Ways to Say No
Japanese culture often favors indirect refusals to avoid sounding too harsh. Here are some polite ways to say no in a softer way.
4. ちょっと… (Chotto…) – A Soft and Indirect No
“Chotto” literally means “a little”, but when said with hesitation, it often implies a polite refusal.
🔹 Example:
A: 明日映画を見に行かない？ (Ashita eiga o mi ni ikanai?) – Want to go see a movie tomorrow?
B: うーん、ちょっと… (Uun, chotto…) – Hmm, that’s a bit… (implying no).
✅ Why use this?
- It allows you to refuse without explicitly saying “no.”
- It keeps the conversation polite and natural.
5. 遠慮します (Enryo shimasu) – “I’ll Pass” (Polite Refusal)
This phrase means “I’ll refrain” and is a formal way to politely decline an invitation or offer.
🔹 Example:
A: もう一杯いかがですか？ (Mō ippai ikaga desu ka?) – Would you like another drink?
B: いいえ、遠慮します。(Iie, enryo shimasu.) – No, I’ll pass.
✅ When to use this?
- In professional or business settings.
- When refusing food, drinks, or offers without sounding rude.
6. 無理 (Muri) – “Impossible” / “I Can’t”
“Muri” literally means “impossible” and is a natural way to say you can’t do something.
🔹 Example:
A: 今週末にキャンプに行ける？ (Konshūmatsu ni kyanpu ni ikeru?) – Can you go camping this weekend?
B: 無理！仕事がある。(Muri! Shigoto ga aru.) – No way! I have work.
✅ Why use this?
- It sounds more natural and conversational than just saying “no.”
- It expresses that something is not possible for you, rather than outright refusing.
7. 結構です (Kekkō desu) – “No, Thank You” (Polite)
“Kekkō desu” is a polite and slightly formal way to decline offers, especially in customer service settings.
🔹 Example:
A: コーヒーはいかがですか？ (Kōhī wa ikaga desu ka?) – Would you like some coffee?
B: いいえ、結構です。(Iie, kekkō desu.) – No, thank you.
⚠️ Caution:
Saying “kekkō desu” in a sharp tone can sound cold or dismissive, so be mindful of your tone!
How to Say No Without Saying No
Sometimes, Japanese people avoid direct refusals entirely. Instead, they use indirect phrases that imply “no” without saying it outright.
💬 考えておきます (Kangaete okimasu) – “I’ll think about it.” (Usually means no.)
💬 また今度 (Mata kondo) – “Maybe next time.” (A soft refusal.)
💬 ちょっと難しいですね (Chotto muzukashii desu ne) – “That’s a little difficult.” (A polite way to say no.)
These expressions help maintain politeness and are commonly used in both casual and formal conversations.
How to Master Japanese Phrases with Migaku
Want to sound more natural when refusing in Japanese? With Migaku, you can:
✅ Learn real-world Japanese from anime, YouTube, and Netflix.
✅ Instantly look up words and hear native pronunciation.
✅ Create smart flashcards to remember vocabulary easily.
✅ Track your progress and expand your knowledge naturally.
Understanding how to say “no” in different ways is key to sounding fluent in Japanese. Ready to improve your skills?
Start learning with Migaku today!
