How to Say ‘Not at all.’ in Japanese
とんでもないです
tondemo nai desu
[tondemo nai desu]
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is a standard polite way to brush off thanks or apology, like "not at all" or "don't mention it." It sounds modest and is very useful around in-laws or other formal family situations.
Phrase Breakdown
とんでも
tondemo
[tondemo]
no way
Used to express surprise or disbelief, often saying 'not at all'.
とんでもないです、そんなことない。
No way, that's not true.
ない
nai
[nai]
isn't
Indicates negation in the past or present tense.
それはないです。
It isn't so.
です
desu
[desu]
polite desu
Used at the end of sentences for politeness.
私は元気です。
I am well.
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