いいえ

How to remember it

Sounds like a drawn-out "ii-e" — politely declining or deflecting.

Example sentences

• いいえ、違います。

  いいえ、ちがいます。

  No, that's not right.

• 「ありがとうございます。」「いいえ。」

  「ありがとうございます。」「いいえ。」

  "Thank you." "You're welcome."

Usage

Answers "no," or modestly deflects thanks and praise.

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