The Meaning of "Kento-shimasu": Understanding Japanese Indirectness

In the professional environments of The Hague or Amsterdam, directness is often seen as a hallmark of honesty and efficiency. A “yes” signals commitment; a “no” sets a clear boundary.

But when you present the same proposal to a Japanese client or colleague, you may encounter a third, ambiguous option:"Kento-shimasu" (検討します).

Literally translated as "I will consider it," this phrase can be a source of significant cultural miscommunication. To a European mindset, it sounds like a polite “maybe” or a pending decision. However, in the Japanese business context, the meaning is far more nuanced.

The Logic Behind the Ambiguity

In Japanese culture, maintaining wa (和 – harmony) is often valued more than immediate clarity. A direct “no” risks causing the other party to “lose face,” which can damage trust or relationships.

This is where kento-shimasu functions as a cushion phrase—it acknowledges the proposal while gently deferring the response. It also provides time for internal alignment and consensus-building, often referred to as nemawashi (根回し).

Decoding the Three Layers of "Kento-shimasu"

Understanding kento-shimasu requires reading between the lines. Depending on the context, tone, and body language, it can mean several things:

• The Positive Pending (30%) “We like the idea, but I need to consult with my boss.”This is a genuine consideration and the beginning of the internal decision-making process.

• The Polite Refusal (60%) “This doesn’t fit our needs, but I don’t want to damage the relationship by saying ‘no’ outright.”Often used to soften rejection while preserving harmony.

• The Social Buffer (10%) “I’m not the decision-maker, and I’d rather not take responsibility for an answer right now.”A way to defer decision-making without personal risk.Decoding the Three Layers of "Kento-shimasu"

Europe vs. Japan: A Strategic Comparison

Feature	European Communication	Japanese Communication
Primary Goal	Clarity and speed	Relationship and harmony
Negative Feedback	Direct ("It’s not possible")	Indirect ("It’s difficult")
Kento-shimasu	A literal promise to consider	A social buffer to preserve wa

How Should You Respond?

Hearing kento-shimasu doesn't mean you should just wait. Strategic professionals at Sakura Japanese Workshop recommend the following next steps:

• Ask for a Timeline: “Understood. When would be a good time to follow up on your consideration?”

• Offer More Data: “Is there any additional information your team would need for the decision-making process?”

• Read Non-Verbal Cues: If it’s accompanied by a slight head tilt or the word “muzukashii” (difficult), it’s likely a polite “no.”

Beyond the Words

Mastering Japanese isn’t just about vocabulary—it’s about understanding the cultural operating system that guides every interaction.

At Sakura Japanese Workshop in The Hague, our instructors—each with professional experience across Japan, Europe, and the U.S.—help you decode these hidden rules. We teach you the logic behind phrases like kento-shimasu, enabling you to transform polite ambiguity into practical strategy.