How to Say ‘Good for you.’ in Japanese
えらいね。
erai ne
[eh-rai ne]
💬 Usage Tip: えらい literally means "great" or "important," but said to a child it's praise for good behavior or effort, like "well done!"
🇯🇵 In Japan: Japanese parents praise children with えらいね constantly. Saying it to an adult or a superior can sound condescending, though.
Phrase Breakdown
えらい
erai
[eh-rai]
good job; admirable
Used to praise effort or admirable behavior, like sitting nicely or waiting patiently.
ちゃんと待ててえらいね。
You waited properly—good job.
ね
ne
[ne]
isn't it; right
Sentence-ending particle that seeks agreement or adds friendliness.
今日は暑いですね。
It's hot today, isn't it?
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