Translation guide
An exclamation of joy, celebration, or approval. Japanese uses several interjections depending on formality, context, and enthusiasm.
Hooray! (casual joy)
Hooray! (group cheer)
Expressing joy or excitement in a casual, enthusiastic way, similar to 'hooray!' or 'yay!'
A very common casual exclamation meaning 'I did it!' or 'Yay!'. Used when something good happens.
Hooray! I passed the exam!
Literally 'ten thousand years', used as a celebratory cheer, often with arms raised. Can be used in groups.
A cute, childlike exclamation of delight. Often used by children or in lighthearted situations.
Hooray, a present!
A loanword from English 'yay', used in very casual, trendy contexts, especially among young people.
A more formal or collective cheer, often used in ceremonies, toasts, or organized celebrations.
Means 'cheers!' when raising glasses. The standard toast in Japan, equivalent to 'hooray' in celebratory drinking contexts.
Cheers! Congratulations!
A formal threefold cheer of 'banzai', often led at ceremonies or political rallies.
We will now give three cheers.
Expressing 'hooray' with sarcasm, disappointment, or lack of enthusiasm.
やった is a personal, spontaneous exclamation of success or happiness. 万歳 is a more formal, often group-oriented cheer, sometimes performed with raised arms. Use やった for everyday victories, 万歳 for celebrations or ceremonies.
Hooray! I won the lottery!
Banzai! The new era name has been announced!
いえい is very casual and can sound childish or overly trendy. It's best reserved for informal, youthful contexts. In most situations, やった is safer.
Hooray! We won the game!
Hooray! It's finally Friday!
万歳！日本が勝った！
Hooray! Japan won!
Yay! Let's go to the amusement park!