A Jojo Reference that literally means "But I Refuse" in Japanese. It was a quote by Rohan Kishibe in part 4 of the popular Anime series
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure.
Japanese - "だが、断る"
だが means "but" or "however" and is pronounced as "Daga". Other forms of "but" can also be used but in this case, "Daga" is usually used to contradict what someone thinks. It is also more formal and has a stronger emphasis on the word.
Example: "I think I'm going to fail my exam tomorrow... Daga (but), I'm still going to play
video games anyway."
You'll also notice that there is a short pause after "Daga" for extra emphasis, or dramaticsm. This is
the right way to say the quote since it leaves the listener in suspense for a while, before utterly astonishing them with the unexpected phrase.
Example: "Daga... I GOT FULL MARKS!"
断る means "refuse" or "decline", and is often used to turn down someone's offer a bit harshly. Though its literal meaning is "refuse", it can also mean "I refuse". The meaning, when
translated would be "Declined!" or "Rejected".
In the original Anime scene, Rohan Kishibe is held hostage by an enemy who tells him that he will spare Rohan's life if he betrays
Josuke. Rohan seemingly expresses an interest in the plan but tricks him and surprises the enemy by saying "But I refuse." and warning Josuke instead. This noble act of self-sacrifice from him brought to fame for the amazing and astonishing plot twist it was and the honorable gesture of Rohan Kishibe.
Friend: Can you stop making Jojo References
all the time?!
Me: Daga Kotowaru!!
Friend: Can you please show me your test paper? I'll give you 70 bucks for it.
Me: Really?
Friend: Yes, I swear! Please show me the paper.
Me: Daga KOTOWARU!
Teacher: Stop talking
in the back!
Me: What if I don't?
Teacher: Get out of the class!
Me: Daga... KOTOWARU!!
Death: It's
time to go, Rohan.
Rohan Kishibe: Daga Kotowaru!!
Death: You cannot refuse me, Rohan!
Rohan Kishibe: KOTOWARUUUU!!!
