返事

• Reading: へんじ
• Romaji: henji
• Kanji breakdown: 返 (hen/kae) — return, send back; 事 (ji/koto) — thing, matter
• Pronunciation: /he.n.dʑi/

Meaning

Reply; answer; response. A verbal or written answer to a question or call.

Used as a noun or する verb (返事する/返事をする). Commonly refers to responding when called, answering a question, or replying to a letter or message. A quick, clear 返事 is valued as a sign of attentiveness in Japanese culture.

Examples

1. 名前を呼ばれたら、大きい声で返事をしてください。 When your name is called, please answer in a loud voice.
2. メールの返事がまだ来ていない。 I still haven't gotten a reply to my email.
3. 彼女は笑顔で返事をした。 She answered with a smile.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, school, workplace

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 返 (hen, return) and 事 (ji, matter/thing). Literally means a matter that is returned — i.e., a response given back.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal