言(い)い分(ぶん)

いいぶん
noun
one's say; argument; excuse; complaint
communication
1. one's say; argument; claim
What someone has to say in their defense or to express their viewpoint.
彼(かれ)の言(い)い分(ぶん)も聞(き)いてあげよう。
Let's also hear what he has to say.
双方(そうほう)の言(い)い分(ぶん)を聞(き)く必要(ひつよう)がある。
We need to hear both sides of the argument.
言(い)い分(ぶん)があるなら言(い)ってみろ。
If you have something to say, say it.
2. excuse; complaint
A reason or objection someone raises.
彼女(かのじょ)の言(い)い分(ぶん)はいつも同(おな)じだ。
Her excuse is always the same.
遅刻(ちこく)した言(い)い分(ぶん)を聞(き)かせてください。
Please tell me your excuse for being late.
何(なに)を言(い)っても言(い)い分(ぶん)にしか聞(き)こえないから、黙(だま)っていた方(ほう)がいい。
No matter what you say, it just sounds like excuses, so it's better to stay quiet.

Forms

言(い)う (to say) + 分(ぶん) (portion, share)

Usage

Implies the speaker feels they have a valid point or justification. Often used in conflict situations or when someone feels misunderstood.

general
Added 2026.1.18 18:27 · Revised 2026.9.4 21:29
06500/06874_iibun