Translation guide
The English word "alright" is used in many casual situations: to say something is acceptable, to confirm understanding, to get attention, or to express relief. Japanese has different expressions for each use, and direct translation often sounds unnatural.
To say that something is satisfactory, fine, or good enough.
Most common and versatile. Can mean 'it's okay', 'I'm fine', 'no problem'. Used in both casual and polite speech.
「遅れてごめん」「大丈夫だよ」
"Sorry I'm late." "It's alright."
この料理、辛くても大丈夫ですか？
Is it alright if this dish is spicy?
Very common casual word meaning 'good' or 'fine'. Often used when giving permission or saying something is acceptable.
「ここに座ってもいい？」「いいよ」
"Is it alright if I sit here?" "Sure, it's alright."
Means 'I don't mind' or 'it's alright'. Slightly more formal than 大丈夫 or いい. Often used when giving permission or expressing indifference.
タバコを吸っても構いませんか？
Is it alright if I smoke?
Can mean 'alright' or 'fine' in the sense of 'that's enough' or 'no thank you'. Be careful: it can also mean 'splendid' or 'quite'. Context is key.
When refusing an offer, 結構です can sound blunt. Use with care.
「お茶はいかがですか？」「いえ、結構です」
"Would you like some tea?" "No, I'm alright, thank you."
To check that someone understands or agrees, similar to 'alright?' or 'okay?'.
Casual way to ask 'alright?' or 'okay?'. Rising intonation.
明日、駅で待ち合わせ。いい？
Let's meet at the station tomorrow. Alright?
Can be used to ask 'are you alright?' or 'is it alright?'. More concerned tone than いい？.
この計画で大丈夫？
Is this plan alright?
Literally 'did you understand?', used like 'alright?' after explaining something.
まずここを押して、次にこれを引く。わかった？
First press here, then pull this. Alright?
To get someone's attention or signal the start of an action, like 'alright, let's go'.
Common casual transition word, like 'alright then' or 'well then'. Used to move things along.
じゃあ、始めようか。
Alright, let's get started.
Used to encourage action, like 'alright' or 'come on'. Often when starting something or urging someone.
さあ、行こう！
Alright, let's go!
An exclamation when ready to do something, like 'alright!' or 'okay!'. Often used by oneself.
よし、準備完了。
Alright, ready to go.
To express relief or a sudden realization, like 'ah, alright'.
Means 'I see' or 'that makes sense'. Used when you understand something.
なるほど、そういうことか。
Alright, I get it now.
Casual 'oh, I see' or 'ah, alright'. Shows realization.
ああ、そうか。わかった。
Ah, alright. I understand.
The English "alright" is often used as a filler or discourse marker. Directly translating it into Japanese in every instance will sound unnatural. Choose the expression that matches the specific function.
大丈夫 (daijoubu) is the safest and most common for 'alright' in the sense of 'okay/fine'. いい (ii) is more casual and often used for giving permission. 構わない (kamawanai) is more formal and expresses that you don't mind something.