also: はーい · はーーい
Polite affirmative response. The standard way to say 'yes' in formal or neutral situations.
「これはあなたの本ですか」「はい、そうです」
"Is this your book?" "Yes, it is."
Shows comprehension or acknowledgment, like 'got it' or 'I see'. Used in conversation to indicate you are following along.
「明日までにレポートを出してください」「はい、わかりました」
"Please submit the report by tomorrow." "OK, understood."
Response to a roll call, like saying 'here' or 'present' when your name is called.
「田中さん」「はい」
"Ms. Tanaka?" "Here."
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？もう一度言ってください」
"Pardon? Could you say that again?"
Used when calling for someone's attention or when handing something over, like 'here' or 'here you go'.
「はい、これ、お土産です」
"Here, this is a souvenir for you."
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」と馬に声をかけた。
He urged the horse on, saying "Giddy-up, whoa."
はい is the standard, polite way to say 'yes', while はあ is a more casual, less formal affirmative that can also carry hesitation or mild surprise.