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Meaning 1 : It’s okay / No problem.

• A: “Is it okay if I sit here?” 

• B: “Daijoubu desu.” → “Yes, it’s fine.” 

Meaning 2 : I don’t need help / I’m good.

• A: “Want me to get your medicine?” 

• B: “Daijoubu.” → “No thanks, I’m good.” 

This is where things get tricky. 

• A: “Do you want coffee?” 

• B: “Daijoubu desu.” 

Depending on the tone and situation, this could mean : 

• “Sure, I’m okay with coffee.” (Yes) 

• “No thanks, I’m good.” (No) 

In other words, “daijoubu” can mean both yes and no. 

It’s a bit like saying “I’m good” in English — it all depends on how it’s said. 

Japanese speakers often use “daijoubu” to be polite or to avoid being too direct. As a learner, you might find yourself using it too often, which can make your Japanese sound unclear. 

For example : 

You see your friend looking tired. 

You ask: “Daijoubu?” 

They reply: “Un… daijoubu…” 

But do they really mean it? Maybe they’re just trying to avoid making you worry. 

To sound more natural and specific in Japanese, try these alternatives depending on the situation : 

• You want to say YES  

 　→ 「大丈夫です。お願いします。」  

 　　Daijoubu desu, onegaishimasu. 

• You want to say NO PROBLEM / NO WORRIES  

 　→ 「問題ありません」 Mondai arimasen (formal)  

 　→ 「平気だよ」 Heiki dayo (casual) 

• You want to politely say NO  

 　→ 「結構です」 Kekkou desu.  

 　→ 「気持ちだけで大丈夫です」 Kimochi dake de daijoubu desu. 

• Talking about your health  

 　→ 「疲れているけど、少し休めば大丈夫」  

 　　Tsukarete iru kedo, sukoshi yasumeba daijoubu. 

• Responding to someone’s concern  

 　→ 「ありがとう、でも平気」  

 　　Arigatou, demo heiki. 

These phrases help clarify your meaning while still sounding polite.