前向きに検討します (maemuki ni kentou shimasu): The Most 'Positive' Rejection

Have you ever passionately presented an idea to your boss or a partner, only to receive a promising reply?

「うん、前向きに検討します。」 (Un, maemuki ni kentou shimasu.)

A literal translation is "I will consider it positively." Sounds wonderful and full of hope, right? 🤩 You think your idea is about to be approved, your project is about to get the green light.

But alas, with over 10 years of 'battle' experience in Japanese offices, I must warn you: this is one of those 'yellow light' 🟡 phrases that signals a 90% chance of rejection!

🤯 Why Does "Positive" Mean "Negative"?

This is the pinnacle of Japanese indirect communication culture, which avoids direct confrontation. Instead of a blunt rejection like 「だめです」(No) or 「できません」(It can't be done), they use a polite expression to:

1. Save your face: They don't want to hurt your feelings or make you feel like your idea was flatly rejected.
2. Maintain harmony (和 - wa): Avoid creating tension or unnecessary conflict.
3. Leave a 'way out': This phrase doesn't completely shut the door. It keeps things ambiguous, just in case they change their mind (though this chance is very low).

In other words, this is the office version of the legendary phrase 「行けたら行くね」(I'll go if I can make it).

🤔 How to 'Read' the Real Meaning?

So how do you know if this 'yellow light' is about to turn 'red' or 'green'? Pay attention to the accompanying signs:

• No specific questions: If they were truly interested, they would ask for more details. For example: "What is the estimated cost?", "How much manpower is needed?"...
• No timeline: Someone who is genuinely 'considering it positively' will give a deadline. For example: 「来週の水曜日までに一度返事しますね」(I'll give you a reply by next Wednesday).
• A quick end to the conversation: If they say this and quickly change the subject or end the meeting, it's not a good sign.

💡 So What Should You Do?

Instead of waiting in vain, you can be a bit more proactive. After a reasonable amount of time (a few days or a week), send a tactful follow-up email 📧:

「先日の〇〇の件、その後いかがでしょうか。もし追加で必要な情報などございましたら、お気軽にお申し付けください。」 (Regarding the matter of 〇〇 the other day, I was wondering about its progress. If there is any additional information you need, please feel free to let me know.)

This approach helps you get an update and shows professionalism without putting pressure on the other party.

In summary: When you hear「前向きに検討します」, don't celebrate too soon. Consider it a polite rejection and have your Plan B ready. By mastering this 'code,' you've taken a giant leap in 'reading' the Japanese office environment! ✨