What does hai mean in Japanese?

Answer 1

Scott previously replied "The Japanese word (hai) means 'yes' in English. The pronunciation is almost identical to English's "hi". "

This is not quite correct. While it can be used in the form where it means the same as the English "yes", more often than not it has a different meaning. The word "hai" is a more generic word used in various scenarios.

For example, in a conversation or a business meeting when one person is speaking someone else will say "hai". This does not mean "Yes, I agree" but simply "I have heard you." This is very different and often the cause of confusion with American business people in Japan. They hear "hai" and assume the person is agreeing with them, and often it is quite the opposite. They are just saying "I hear you" or "I understand you".

Other potential meanings include:

- response in the affirmative - in response to "where is Takashina?", Takashina might reply "Hai" meaning "I am here"

- to segway a conversation (or break the ice) - as in "well then, ..."

- to inform others you have an opinion - "Hai" followed by a slight pause and then the statement of the opinion

It is a word that has different meanings depending on the context, the body language and other factors. Do not fall into the trap that is simply means "yes" in the American sense of the word "yes".

Answer 2

Hiei actually means 'flying shadow' in Japanese

Answer 3

"Hei" is an exclamation used either to show surprise or when the person didn't hear or understand what someone said.