How to Say ‘Oh no, I still have a long way to go.’ in Japanese
いえいえ、まだまだです。
ie ie madamada desu
[EE-eh EE-eh mah-dah-MAH-dah dess]
🇯🇵 In Japan: Accepting a compliment with "thank you" can sound a bit self-satisfied in Japan, so this modest reply is the standard response. Your coworkers will expect something like it.
Phrase Breakdown
いえいえ、
ie ie
No, no,
A soft, modest 'no' you use when someone compliments you. Say it lightly: i-e i-e.
いえいえ、大丈夫です。
No, no, it's fine.
Words in this phrase
いえ
ie
[EE-eh]
no (not at all)
Repeated いえ softens it into a polite 'don't mention it'.
いえいえ、大丈夫ですよ。
No no, it's fine.
いえ
ie
[EE-eh]
no (not at all)
Repeated いえ softens it into a polite 'don't mention it'.
いえいえ、大丈夫ですよ。
No no, it's fine.
まだまだです。
madamada desu
I still have a long way to go.
まだまだ means 'still not yet'. It's a humble reply to praise. Keep the rhythm even: ma-da-ma-da.
ピアノはまだまだです。
I still have a long way to go with the piano.
Words in this phrase
まだまだ
madamada
[mah-dah-MAH-dah]
still a long way to go; not yet good
Humble reply to praise, meaning one still has much to learn.
私の英語はまだまだです。
My English still has a long way to go.
です
desu
[dess]
is; polite copula
A polite sentence ending used in formal conversation.
少し伺いたいです。
I would like to ask a little.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager