Translation guide
The English word 'OK' is used to express agreement, acceptance, or that something is satisfactory. In Japanese, there are several ways to convey this, depending on the context and level of formality.
Expressing that you agree to a suggestion, request, or plan.
Casual and very common way to say 'OK' or 'Sure'. Used among friends, family, or in informal situations.
"Want to go to a movie?" "OK."
Polite way to say 'Understood' or 'OK'. Used when accepting instructions or acknowledging information.
"Please come at 10 tomorrow." "OK."
Loanword from English, used casually. Often written in katakana. Can sound a bit informal or trendy.
Very formal, often used in business settings to acknowledge a request or order. Equivalent to 'Certainly' or 'Understood'.
Saying that something is fine, alright, or in an acceptable state.
Asking or granting permission to do something.
Casual way to ask 'Is it OK if I...?' or 'May I...?'. Attach to the te-form of a verb.
Showing that you have heard and understood what was said.
Expresses that you understand or see the point. Similar to 'I see' or 'OK, got it'.
In formal written Japanese, using オーケー is often too casual. Instead, use phrases like 問題ありません (no problem) or 承知しました (understood).
いいよ is used for giving permission or agreeing to a suggestion. 大丈夫 is more about confirming that something is safe, acceptable, or not a problem. For example, when someone asks if you are hurt, you say 大丈夫, not いいよ.
「これでいい？」「オーケー！」
"Is this OK?" "OK!"
"Please copy these documents." "OK."
Means 'OK', 'alright', 'safe', or 'no problem'. Very versatile. Can be used to ask or state if something is acceptable.
"Is this outfit OK?" "Yeah, it's fine."
Polite way to say 'That's fine' or 'No thank you'. Can mean 'OK' in the sense of 'I'm satisfied' or to decline an offer politely.
Can also mean 'no thank you' depending on context. Tone and situation matter.
"Would you like some tea?" "I'm OK, thank you."
Literally 'no problem'. Used to say something is OK or there's no issue.
"Is it OK if I'm late?" "No problem."
"Is it OK if I sit here?" "Sure."
Polite version of the above. Use in formal situations or with strangers.
"Is it OK to take a photo?" "Yes, go ahead."
Casually asking 'Is it OK?' or 'Are you OK with this?'.
"Is tomorrow OK?" "Yeah, that's fine."
"It works when you press this button." "OK, I see."
Means 'Roger' or 'Understood'. Often used in military, team, or casual contexts. Can be used as '了解です' for politeness.
"We meet at 5." "OK, got it!"
Is this OK?