Japanese culture puts a big emphasis on harmony, saving face, and not making others feel bad. That means people rarely say “no” outright—at least, not the way you’d hear it in English. Instead, they use softer, more indirect ways to turn things down. If you want to sound polite (and not accidentally offend anyone!), it’s good to learn the subtle art of saying no in Japanese.
Let’s go through the most useful phrases and when to use each one—whether you’re at work, with friends, or just trying to turn down that extra helping of sushi!
The Straightforward “No” (But Still Polite):
いいえ (Iie)
Pronounced “ee-eh.” This is the textbook “no,” but it’s surprisingly strong for many everyday situations. It’s okay to use when you really need to say “no,” especially in class, with close friends, or for yes/no questions. But for turning down invitations or requests, it can sound too blunt.
Example:
Q: コーヒー飲みますか？ (Kōhī nomimasu ka? — Will you have coffee?)
A: いいえ、けっこうです。 (Iie, kekkō desu. — No, thank you.)
The Super-Polite “No, Thank You”
結構です (Kekkō desu)
Literally, “I’m fine” or “That’s enough.” This is a gentle, common way to refuse offers of food, help, or gifts.
Example:
ケーキはいかがですか？ (Keeki wa ikaga desu ka? — Would you like some cake?)
結構です。ありがとうございます。 (Kekkō desu. Arigatō gozaimasu. — No, thank you.)
The Indirect “No” (Perfect for Work and Social Life)
ちょっと… (Chotto…)
This literally means “a little,” but in conversation, it signals you’re uncomfortable or unwilling. Japanese people often trail off after “chotto…” and the other person gets the hint.
Example:
今週末、遊びませんか？ (Konshūmatsu, asobimasen ka? — Want to hang out this weekend?)
ちょっと… (Chotto… — Uh, that’s a little… [impossible].)
Other Useful Polite Ways to Say No
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今回は遠慮しておきます (Konkai wa enryo shite okimasu)
“I’ll pass this time.” Very polite, especially for invitations.
今度誘ってくださいね！(Kondo sasotte kudasai ne! — Please invite me next time!) -
申し訳ありませんが… (Mōshiwake arimasen ga…)
“I’m very sorry, but…” Very formal and apologetic, perfect for work or turning down requests gently.
申し訳ありませんが、できません。(Mōshiwake arimasen ga, dekimasen. — I’m sorry, but I can’t.) -
ちょっと難しいです (Chotto muzukashii desu)
“That’s a little difficult.” Softens the refusal and is often used at work.
When in Doubt: Add Thanks or Apologies
Ending your refusal with ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu – thank you) or すみません (sumimasen – sorry/excuse me) makes it even softer and more polite.
Quick Cheat Sheet
- いいえ、けっこうです (Iie, kekkō desu) — No, thank you.
- ちょっと… (Chotto…) — That’s a bit… (Sorry, can’t do it.)
- 申し訳ありませんが、できません (Mōshiwake arimasen ga, dekimasen) — I’m very sorry, but I can’t.
- 今回は遠慮しておきます (Konkai wa enryo shite okimasu) — I’ll pass this time.
Final Thoughts: When Politeness Is Power
If you ever feel stuck, remember: Japanese is all about reading the room and softening your words. When in doubt, keep it indirect, thank the other person, and show you appreciate the offer—even if you have to turn it down. That’s the secret to saying no in Japanese, and staying friends, classmates, or colleagues with everyone!
Practice a few of these phrases, and you’ll sound natural, respectful, and totally in tune with Japanese manners—no awkwardness required.