Say It More Naturally

How 大丈夫です changes by context

By the end you'll understand hidden yes/no nuance.

N5-N4 N5 to early N4 · 3 phrases
  1. 1

    大丈夫です

    daijōbu desu

    大丈夫です meaning 'I'm fine / it's okay', used to reassure someone or confirm that something is acceptable.

    Use when someone asks if you're okay, confirming a plan works for you, reassuring someone

    大丈夫です。

    daijōbu desu.

    I'm fine, it's okay.

  2. 2

    大丈夫です

    daijōbu desu

    大丈夫です meaning 'no thanks / I don't need it', used to decline an offer politely. The exact same phrase, but tone and context flip the meaning.

    Use when declining a bag, refusing extra help, saying no to an offer

    大丈夫です。

    daijōbu desu.

    No thanks, I'm fine.

  3. 3

    大丈夫ですか

    daijōbu desu ka

    大丈夫ですか as a question, asking 'Are you okay?' or 'Is it okay?' The か at the end turns it into a check-in.

    Use when checking on someone, asking if something is acceptable, confirming before proceeding

    大丈夫ですか。

    daijōbu desu ka.

    Are you okay? / Is that alright?

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