Japanese for Kids

How to Say "No" in Japanese

Just as important as 'yes' — a respectful way to decline or disagree.

In Japanese (日本語)

いいえ (Iie)

Pronounced: EE-eh

How to use this phrase

  • Greet a friend: Try saying "いいえ (Iie)" the next time you meet someone who speaks Japanese.
  • Practice with family: Use it during dinner or while watching a Japanese cartoon together.
  • Be respectful: Speaking even a few words in someone's language shows you care about their culture.
  • Have fun: Don't worry about being perfect — every native speaker started where you are now.

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