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Common phrases for complaining politely in Japanese visualisation

Common phrases for complaining politely in Japanese

Japanese Complaints and Apologies: Speak Thoughtfully and Effectively: Common phrases for complaining politely in Japanese
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Here are some common polite phrases for complaining in Japanese that can be used in various situations:

  • すみませんが… (Sumimasen ga…) — Excuse me, but… (A polite way to start a complaint)
  • すみません、私の○○まだですか？(Sumimasen, watashi no ○○ mada desu ka?) — Excuse me, hasn’t my ○○ (e.g., meal) been ready yet?
  • これ、違います。(Kore, chigaimasu.) — This is not correct / This is not what I ordered. (Pointing at the issue)
  • もう少し静かにしてもらえますか？(Mou sukoshi shizukani shite moraemasu ka?) — Could you please be a little quieter?
  • 申し訳ないですが…(Moushiwakenai desu ga…) — I am sorry, but… (Very polite way to begin a complaint)
  • お手数ですが、少々お時間をいただけますか？(Otesuu desu ga, shoushou ojikan wo itadakemasu ka?) — Sorry for the trouble, but could I have a moment of your time?
  • すみませんが、もう一度確認していただけますか？(Sumimasen ga, mou ichido kakunin shiteitadakemasu ka?) — Excuse me, could you please check it again?

These phrases maintain politeness while clearly expressing a complaint or request, appropriate for respectful communication in Japanese settings such as restaurants, shops, or accommodations.

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