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How to Say ‘I don't know yet.’ in Japanese

まだ分からなくて。

mada wakara naku te

[mah-dah wah-KAH-rah naku teh]

💬 Usage Tip: Ending on なくて leaves the sentence hanging on purpose, like "…so, um". It hints that you'd like the listener to help, without asking directly.

Phrase Breakdown

まだ

mada

[mah-dah]

still; yet

Used to say there is still some amount of time remaining.

Example

まだチャンスはある。

There is still a chance.

分から

wakara

[wah-KAH-rah]

understand; know (negative stem)

Stem of 分かる used before negative endings.

Example

意味が分からない。

I don't understand the meaning.

なく

naku

[naku]

not

Negative form indicator.

Example

今日は行けなくなった。

I can't go today.

て

te

[teh]

and; -te form

A linking form used to connect verbs to following grammar, such as progressive or polite forms.

Example

仕事を探している人と話しました。

I spoke with a person who is looking for work.

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