| Summary | This phrase means, “If you get hurt, hit back twice as hard!” It was made famous by the main character of the Japanese business drama Hanzawa Naoki , a fearless banker who battles injustice in the corporate world. The line reflects a strong stance against unfair treatment and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. |
| Genre | Business Drama |
| Typical Age Group | 20–60 years old |
| Audience | Drama fans |
| Popularity | ★★★★★ Still frequently referenced in media, memes, and everyday conversation—especially in work-related frustrations or parody contexts. The phrase has even been used in political commentary and commercials. |
| Relevance | ★★★★☆ |
| Usability | ★★★★★ |
| When to Use | As a joke after someone wrongs you When mock-threatening to “get back” at someone (lightheartedly) For dramatic effect when discussing payback |
| How to Use | Look straight at your “opponent,” raise your voice slightly, and declare: “Yararetara yarikaesu… baigaeshi da!!” Bonus: Pause between the phrases for added drama and impact. Facial intensity makes it better. |
| Cultural Note | The phrase exploded in popularity after Hanzawa Naoki, a series starring Masato Sakai, became a massive hit in 2013. The drama was known for exposing corruption in banks and corporations, and the catchphrase became a symbol of standing up to power. “Baigaeshi da!” appeared on T-shirts, merchandise, and news headlines—it became a national buzzword. It remains a cultural shorthand for “righteous revenge” and has strong meme value in Japan. |
performance sample video
You can hear a similar phrase at around 00:40 in this YouTube video.
This phrase is often changed to the phrase that comes after Yararetara Yarikaesu.
For example, Sanbaigaeshida!.
This makes it a very versatile phrase.
However, I recommend that beginners start by saying “Baigaeshida!”