Japanese word

よ

Pronunciation

Romajiyo

Meaning

  • particleyou know

Example

これは本ですよ。ko re wa hon de su yo

This is a book, you know.

Illustration for よ (you know)

More examples

これは私のですよ。ko re wa watashi no de su yo

This is mine, you know.

駅はあちらですよ。eki wa a chi ra de su yo

The station is over there, you know.

Core concept

Marks information presented as new or emphasized for the listener, giving the statement a clear informing tone.

Common phrases

  • いいですよi i de su yo

    It's fine, you know

Similar words

ねne: Marks a statement as information shared with the listener while inviting agreement or recognition.

Definition in Japanese

話し手が相手に知らせる気持ちを添えて、文の内容を強調する終助詞。hana shi te ga ai te ni shi ra se ru ki mo chi o so e te bun no nai yō o kyō chō su ru shū jo shi

Word origin

The sentence-final particle よ (yo) is an old Japanese form found in early texts, but its deeper origin is uncertain; its use has long marked information directed to the listener.

Usage tips

  • Unlike the English phrase "you know," よ (yo) does not mainly check whether the listener understands; it marks the statement as information the speaker is giving the listener.

Word lists with this word