大丈夫 vs 構わない
Japanese word comparison
Listen to 大丈夫
Listen to 構わない
| 大丈夫 | 構わない |
|---|---|
dai-JOH-bu na-adjective / expression | かまわない na-adjective / expression |
| all right; okay; fine; not a problem; safe | I don't mind; it doesn't matter; no objection |
How they differ
構わない expresses lack of objection or permission regarding an action, whereas 大丈夫 focuses on safety or whether something is acceptable from a well-being perspective. 構わない is about consent/indifference to an action, not about whether someone is okay or safe.
When to use each
When to use 大丈夫: Prefer 大丈夫 when asking about or confirming someone's health, safety, or emotional state.
When to use 構わない: Prefer 構わない when you want to give permission or say you have no problem with someone doing something.
Side-by-side examples
- 大丈夫、無理しないで休んでください。
(It's okay; don't push yourself, please rest.) - 遅れても構わないよ。
(I don't mind if you're late.)
Register & nuance: 構わない is neutral in casual speech; for more polite or formal situations use 構いません.