How to Say “You Are Welcome” in Japanese

Recognizing the various ways to respond politely when someone thanks you is essential when acquiring the Japanese language. The English response, “You are welcome,” translates to Japanese in several ways depending on the context, level of politeness, and the relationship between the speakers.

Common Ways to Say “You Are Welcome”

1. どういたしまして (Dō itashimashite)

This translates to, “You are welcome” in the most polite manner. When someone thanks you with ありがとう (Arigatou) or ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu), you respond with the phrase down below.

• Example:

A: ありがとうございます！ (Arigatou gozaimasu!) – Thank you!

B: どういたしまして！ (Dō itashimashite!) – You’re welcome!

2. いいえ (Iie)

This word translates to “no,” but as a response to a thanks, it implies “no problem,” or “Don’t mention it.” This response is less formal and used among friends or peers.

• Example:

A: 手伝ってくれてありがとう！ (Tetsudatte kurete arigatou!) – Thank you for helping!

B: いいえ！ (Iie!) – You’re welcome / No problem!

3. 問題ないです (Mondai nai desu) or 大丈夫です (Daijoubu desu)

These are less formal and can be translated to “no problem” or “It’s okay” and are used in casual conversations when helping someone with a minor task.

Cultural Notes on Politeness

An awareness of and adherence to the rules of politeness and humility in interpersonal relations are an integral part of the Japanese culture. The following is an example of a response to a thank-you in which the Japanese culture politeness is fully expressed:

• とんでもないです (Tondemonai desu) – which means “Not at all” or “Don’t mention it” and

• こちらこそ (Kochira koso) – “The pleasure is mine” (used when you want to reciprocate gratitude).

Summary

Dō itashimashite is often the expected response to a thank-you in Japan. The Japanese culture, however, will expression of ‘You are welcome‘ will vary depending on the social situation. In informal social situations, one may simply say いいえ (iie, “no”). More polite conversation will contain とんでもないです (Tondemonai desu). Recognition and understanding of this systems of variation will assist and guide communication in the Japanese culture.