はい

• Reading: はい
• Romaji: hai
• Pronunciation: /ha.i/

Meaning

Yes; that is correct. Also used to acknowledge or show attentiveness.

The standard affirmative response in Japanese. Beyond meaning 'yes,' it serves as a conversational backchannel to show you are listening, similar to 'uh-huh.' Also used when handing something to someone, answering a phone, or responding to roll call. In casual speech, ええ or うん serve the same purpose.

Examples

1. はい、分かりました。 Yes, I understand.
2. 名前を呼ばれてはいと返事をした。 When my name was called, I answered yes.
3. はい、それは正しいです。 Yes, that is correct.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, responding, acknowledgment

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Evolved from the older Japanese affirmative はあ. Became the standard polite 'yes' during the Edo period, replacing earlier forms.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo period

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal