はい

interjection

yes; that is correct

Polite affirmative response. The standard way to say 'yes' in formal or neutral situations.

• 「これはあなたの本ほんですか」「はい、そうです」

  "Is this your book?" "Yes, it is."

interjection

understood; I see; OK

Shows comprehension or acknowledgment, like 'got it' or 'I see'. Used in conversation to indicate you are following along.

• 「明日あしたまでにレポートを出だしてください」「はい、わかりました」

  "Please submit the report by tomorrow." "OK, understood."

interjection

present; here

Response to a roll call, like saying 'here' or 'present' when your name is called.

• 「田た中なかさん」「はい」

  "Ms. Tanaka?" "Here."

interjection

pardon?; what's that?; come again?

Colloquial, with rising intonation. Used when you didn't catch what someone said and want them to repeat it.

• 「はい？もう一いち度ど言いってください」

  "Pardon? Could you say that again?"

interjection

here you go; here; now

Used when calling for someone's attention or when handing something over, like 'here' or 'here you go'.

• 「はい、これ、お土産みやげです」

  "Here, this is a souvenir for you."

interjection

giddy-up; giddap

Rare, used to urge a horse or similar animal to move. Not common in modern daily conversation.

• 「はい、どうどう」と馬うまに声こえをかけた。

  He urged the horse on, saying "Giddy-up, whoa."