ええ

Alternative writings: えー
JLPT:N5
Frequency:
1

An affirmative response meaning "yes" or "that's right," often used in spoken/casual speech.

Interjection

Examples

ええ、そうです。

Yes, that's right.

「明日来られますか」「ええ、行けます」

"Can you come tomorrow?" "Yes, I can go."

先生:「答えは5番ですか。」 学生:「ええ。」

Teacher: "Is the answer number 5?" Student: "Yes."

2

A filler or hesitation sound (like "um" or "err") used when thinking or hesitating.

Interjection

Examples

えー、どうしようかな……。

Um, what should I do…?

えーっと、次の項目は…

Uh, the next item is…

面接で緊張して、ついえーと言ってしまった。

I got nervous in the interview and ended up saying "um."

3

An exclamation expressing surprise or disbelief (like "huh?" or "what?").

Interjection

Examples

ええ?本当にそんなことがあったの?

Huh? Did that really happen?

「彼、結婚したんだよ」「ええ!」

"He got married." "What!"

えー、そんな簡単に変わるの?

Huh — can it change that easily?

4

An exclamation expressing reluctance or displeasure (like "gah" or "do I have to?").

Interjection

Examples

えー、そんな仕事私にやらせるの?

Ugh, you want me to do that job?

「掃除して」「えー、めんどくさい」

"Clean up." "Ugh, that's a hassle."

えー、また早起きか…

Ugh, get up early again…

5

Kansai-dialect usage meaning "good" or "fine" (equivalent to 'ii'/'yoi').

Noun or Verb Acting Prenominally

Examples

この服、ええやん。

These clothes are nice.

今日は天気がええなあ。

The weather is nice today.

Word Relationships

Synonyms
Antonym