Universal
Cultural · Communication
いえいえ、まだまだです。皆さんに教えていただいたおかげです。 — Not at all — I still have a long way to go. It's all thanks to everyone who has taught me. (Cultural · Communication, Universal, JLPT N4)
You
いえいえ、まだまだです。皆さんに教えていただいたおかげです。
いえいえ、まだまだです。みなさんにおしえていただいたおかげです。
Not at all — I still have a long way to go. It's all thanks to everyone who has taught me.
Romaji: Ie ie, mada mada desu. Minasan ni oshiete itadaita okage desu. / Reply Romaji: Sou iu kenso na tokoro ga suteki desu ne.
Reply
そういう謙虚なところが素敵ですね。
そういうけんきょなところがすてきですね。
That kind of modesty is wonderful.
Gesture & etiquette
Wave your hand slightly in a small dismissive gesture as you say 'ie ie' — a universal Japanese physical signal for 'not at all.' This gesture combined with the humble words creates a complete, culturally authentic deflection. Follow with a warm smile so it does not read as cold dismissal. This combination is one of the most socially powerful tools in the Japanese interaction toolkit.
In Japanese culture, accepting a compliment directly ('yes, I am good at it') is considered arrogant. The standard response is humble deflection — 'mada mada desu' (still not nearly good enough) — often combined with attributing success to others. This 'kenson' (modesty/humility) is a deeply valued social virtue. Mastering this deflection makes Japanese people feel immediately comfortable with you.