In German
Ja
Meaning: yes
Example sentences
Ja,gern!
Yes, gladly!
Ja,ichkommeheuteAbend.
Yes, I'm coming this evening.
Kommstdunicht?–Doch!
You're not coming? – Yes, I am!
Grammar note
“Doch” answers a negative question with “yes”: “Kommst du nicht?” – “Doch!”. Plain “ja” would confirm the negative.
Common mistake
Don't answer “yes” to a negative question with “ja”. Use “doch”.
Quick check
Which word answers “yes” to a negative question like “Don't you like it?”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between “ja” and “doch”?
“Ja” simply agrees with a statement. “Doch” contradicts a negative question or statement.
How do I say “yes, please”?
“Ja, bitte!” is the everyday way to say it.