Japanese, explained
What does 「大丈夫」(daijoubu) mean?
大丈夫daijoubu
“OK,” “all right,” “fine — no problem.” As a question, 大丈夫？ means “Are you okay?”; as an answer, 大丈夫 means “I’m fine.” It reassures, checks in, and confirms things are handled. Politely: 大丈夫です (daijoubu desu).
The nuance that surprises learners
大丈夫です is also a soft way to decline — closer to “I’m good, thanks.” If someone offers you something and you reply 大丈夫です, you’re usually saying no thank you, not “yes.” Context and tone tell you which.
Examples
- 大丈夫ですか？
- Daijoubu desu ka? — Are you okay?
- 心配しないで、大丈夫だよ。
- Shinpai shinaide, daijoubu da yo. — Don’t worry, it’s fine.
How people really say it
- 「コーヒー、いる？」「あ、大丈夫です。」
- “Kōhī, iru?” “A, daijoubu desu.” — “Want coffee?” “Ah, I’m good (no thanks).”
- 全然大丈夫！
- Zenzen daijoubu! — Totally fine! / No problem at all!
Synonyms & related
- 平気 — fine / unbothered
- 問題ない — no problem
- オッケー — OK (casual)
- 結構です — no thank you (polite refusal)
Hear 大丈夫 used in real conversations
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