うん

• Reading: うん
• Romaji: un
• Pronunciation: /ɯɴ/

Meaning

Yeah; uh-huh; yes (informal). A casual affirmative response.

An informal interjection used to express agreement, acknowledgement, or casual confirmation. Much more casual than はい (hai). Used exclusively among friends, family, and close colleagues — never in formal or business settings. Often repeated (うん、うん) to show active listening. The negative equivalent is ううん (uun, meaning 'no').

Examples

1. うん、明日も学校があるよ。 Yeah, I have school tomorrow too.
2. うん、わかった。すぐ行くね。 Yeah, got it. I'll be right there.
3. 友達の話を聞いて、うんと答えました。 I listened to my friend's story and answered 'yeah.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, daily life, friends

Tone: casual

Origin & History

A natural vocal sound used for affirmation, found across many languages. In Japanese, it has been used as an informal 'yes' since ancient times, predating the more formal はい.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal