The expression "hee" (へえ) serves as an important conversational tool in Japanese that shows active listening and engagement. When someone shares information with you, responding with "hee" while nodding communicates that you've received their information and find it interesting or noteworthy.

This response functions similarly to expressions like "oh, really?" or "is that so?" in English, but with some distinctive characteristics. "Hee" specifically indicates mild surprise or interest without interrupting the flow of conversation. It encourages the speaker to continue by providing acknowledgment that you're following along and processing what they're saying.

In the example dialogue:

This exchange demonstrates how "hee" works as a supportive conversational element. The person responding with "hee" is effectively saying, "That's interesting information about you being Russian, and I'm engaged in our conversation."

The nodding that typically accompanies "hee" reinforces the non-verbal dimension of this communication pattern. Together, the vocalization and the physical gesture create a holistic response that maintains social connection and conversational momentum.

Understanding conversational particles like "hee" is essential for natural communication in Japanese, as they help regulate the pacing and emotional tone of interactions. These small expressions carry significant social meaning and help create the back-and-forth rhythm that characterizes fluid conversation in Japanese cultural contexts.