In Japanese, common “aizuchi（あいづち）” include「うん」「うんうん」「へえ」「そうですか」「そうですね」.
“Aizuchi” refers to the short responses or nods people give during a conversation to show they’re listening. In Japanese, we say 「あいづちを打つ」.
Recently, there are some aizuchi that young people use often. Let’s take a look at them together!
1. The Role of Aizuchi
In Japanese conversations, people frequently use aizuchi.
Of course, some people don’t use them much, but most do.
Especially in work-related conversations or when speaking with customers, aizuchi are common.
Aizuchi serve as signs like:
- I’m listening to you.
- I’m interested in what you’re saying.
- I understand what you’re talking about.
- I empathize with your story.
These signs make it easier for the other person to keep talking.
In Japan, aizuchi help conversations flow smoothly and become more engaging.
2. 「たしかに」「なるほど」
Lately, you’ll often hear young people using 「たしかに」 and 「なるほど」 in conversation.
■ The Meaning and Use of 「たしかに」
Meaning: Used when you agree with what the other person is saying.
It expresses feelings like “That’s true” or “Exactly.”
Example:
A: 最近、物価がどんどん上がってるよね。
B: たしかに。スーパーで野菜の値段を見てびっくりしたよ。
A: ケータイを見すぎると、目が疲れるよね。
B: たしかに。ずっと見てると頭も痛くなるよね。
■ The Meaning and Use of 「なるほど」
Meaning: Used when you understand or are convinced by what the other person says.
It means something like “I see!” or “That makes sense!”
Example:
A: 「おはようございます。」は朝だけ使ってください。
B: なるほど。朝だけですね。
A: 日本人は桜がとても好きなんです。
B: なるほど。だから桜の季節にイベントが多いんですね。
■ Practice Questions
Which fits better in the following conversations: 「たしかに」 or 「なるほど」?
① A：ねえ、マリアさん今日、元気よね。
B：＿＿＿＿＿＿。授業中も大きい声で質問してたよね。
② A：このボタンを押すと、電気がつくよ。
B：＿＿＿＿＿＿。知らなかった！ありがとう。
Answers: ①たしかに ②なるほど
3. Just One More Thing
If you become good at using aizuchi, you’ll be able to have smoother conversations with Japanese people. Practice aizuchi at NILS・NILS Annex and become more confident!
