Daijobu
Today, I will talk about the Japanese word “daijobu.”
大丈夫
“Daijobu” means something like “it’s okay” or “no problem,” and is often used in daily life.
今日は「大丈夫」という日本語を紹介します。
For example: “Ashita yasundemo iidesuka?” “Daijobu desu.”
(“Can I take a day off tomorrow?” “No problem.”)
(“Can I take a day off tomorrow?” “No problem.”)
「大丈夫」は “it’s okay” や “no problem” のような意味であり、とてもよく使われます。
However, you have to be careful because “daijobu” has also meanings like “it’s enough” and “no thank you.”
例：「明日休んでもいいですか？」「大丈夫です。」
For example: “Gohan tabeni ikanai?” “Daijobu desu.”
(“How about going out for lunch?” “No thank you.”)
(“How about going out for lunch?” “No thank you.”)
しかし、”it’s enough” や “no thank you” のような意味も持つため、注意が必要です。
Originally, “daijobu” meant only affirmative, but it has come to be used also in negative meanings, because direct denials might bruise someone.
例：「ご飯食べに行きませんか？」「大丈夫です。」
Since the usage of “daijobu” is really confusing even for us, I recommend for you to add supplemental words after saying “daijobu.”
本来、「大丈夫」は肯定の意味しかありませんが、直接的に否定すると相手を傷つけるかもしれないという考えから、否定の意味でも使用されるようになりました。
