Note: This blog is written in both Japanese and English.Please turn off automatic translation in your browser.Automatic translation often breaks the meaning of Japanese expressions and makes them sound strange.
Hello, this is Miyabi.
Today’s topic is 「よかった」(yokatta) — one of the most emotional and versatile words in Japanese.
Why not “良いでした”?
In Japanese, we never say 「良いでした」 for the past tense of good.
The correct past form of 「良い」(ii / yoi) is 「良かった」(yokatta).
A long time ago, people said 「ようございました」, but today 「よかった」 is the normal and natural way.
Different Feelings in 「よかった」
Depending on the situation, 「よかった」 can express relief, joy, empathy, or admiration
Relief and Joy — I’m glad it turned out okay. 無事でよかった。(ぶじでよかった)
無事でよかった→ “I’m glad you’re safe.” / “I’m relieved that you’re okay.”
Used when something dangerous or worrying has passed safely
Relief and Joy — I’m glad it’s good weather! 晴れてよかった。
晴れてよかった。(はれてよかった)→ “I’m glad it’s sunny.” / “It’s nice that the weather cleared up.”
This phrase can express both relief (for example, “It didn’t rain—thank goodness!”)
and happiness (“Perfect day for a picnic!”).
It’s a gentle mix of 安堵 (relief) and 喜び (joy).
Empathy — I’m happy for you!〇〇ちゃん、よかったね！
〇〇ちゃん、よかったね！→ “I’m so happy for you!”
Used to share someone else’s joy or success with warmth and empathy.
Admiration — It was great. この映画はよかった！
この映画はよかった。(このえいがはよかった)
→ “This movie was great.” / “I really liked this movie.”
Used when you express a positive personal impression or evaluation.
In short
「よかった」 isn’t just the past tense of good.
It’s a small word filled with emotion — expressing relief, happiness, and empathy depending on the situation.
When you hear “よかった,” listen carefully.
It often carries a warm feeling of sharing someone’s happiness or feeling relieved together.
