いいえ

• Reading: いいえ
• Romaji: iie
• Pronunciation: /iː.e/

Meaning

No. Used to negate, deny, or politely decline.

The polite way to say 'no' in Japanese. In casual speech, いや or ううん are more common. Also used as a humble deflection when receiving compliments, similar to 'not at all' or 'don't mention it.' Japanese communication often avoids direct refusal, so いいえ may be softened with additional phrases.

Examples

1. いいえ、それは違います。 No, that's not right.
2. いいえ、まだ食べていません。 No, I haven't eaten yet.
3. ありがとうと言われていいえと答えた。 When someone said thank you, I replied not at all.

Usage Guide

Context: denial, declining, humble responses

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From classical Japanese, evolving from older negative interjections. The doubled い vowel emphasizes the negation.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal