Yuka考えておくよ — this phrase sounds like a positive response, but in Japanese it often means something very different from what English speakers expect!
ReiExactly! 考えておく (kangaete oku) literally means “I’ll think about it (in advance),” but in practice it often signals a soft “no” or polite deflection — rather than genuine consideration.
| Expression | Literal Meaning | Actual Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| 考えておくよ | I’ll think about it | Polite maybe / soft no in many contexts |
| 検討します | I’ll consider it | Formal version — also often a soft no in business |
| 前向きに検討します | I’ll consider it positively | Stronger signal that they may actually do it |
Breaking Down 考えておく
考える (kangaeru) = to think / consider. ておく (te oku) = to do something in advance / to do and leave it in that state. Together: “I’ll think about it ahead of time.”
- 考えておくよ。— I’ll think about it. (casual)
- 考えておきます。— I’ll give it some thought. (polite)
- 少し考えさせてください。— Please let me think about it for a bit.
When It’s a Soft No
In Japan, direct refusals are often avoided. 考えておく is frequently used as a polite way to decline without saying no outright. Context is key:
- Business invitation you don’t want to attend: 考えておきます。→ Likely means “probably not.”
- A friend asking for a favor: 考えておくね。→ May mean “I’d rather not.”
- A genuine pause before answering: 考えておく。→ Actually thinking it over.
How to Tell the Difference
Watch for follow-up signals:
- If followed by 連絡するね (I’ll let you know) — more likely genuine.
- If followed by silence or topic change — likely a soft no.
- If said with a facial expression of discomfort — almost certainly declining.
Related Expressions
| Japanese | Nuance |
|---|---|
| 考えておく | I’ll think about it (maybe / soft no) |
| ちょっと難しいかな | That’s a bit difficult (soft no) |
| 前向きに検討します | Actively considering (more positive) |
| ぜひ！ | Definitely yes! (enthusiastic yes) |
Common Mistakes for English Speakers
English speakers often take 考えておく at face value — “Great, they’ll think about it!” — and are later surprised when nothing happens. Learn to read the context and tone. In Japanese communication, how something is said matters as much as what is said.
Quick Quiz
If someone says 考えておきます after you invite them to a party, what is the most likely meaning?
Answer: A polite soft no — they probably won’t come.
Practice with a Tutor
Understanding indirect communication is one of the hardest parts of Japanese. A native tutor can help you read between the lines.
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