Key polite Japanese phrases for beginners
Navigating Japanese Etiquette: Must-Know for Language Learners: Key polite Japanese phrases for beginners
Here are key polite Japanese phrases for beginners that are essential for greetings, showing politeness, and basic conversation:
Greetings
- こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello (during daytime)
- おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good morning (polite)
- こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good evening
- もしもし (Moshi moshi) – Hello (used only on the phone)
- はじめまして (Hajimemashite) – Nice to meet you
Polite Expressions
- ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Thank you (polite)
- どういたしまして (Dou itashimashite) – You’re welcome (less common in casual)
- すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / Sorry
- ごめんなさい (Gomen nasai) – I’m truly sorry (more heartfelt apology)
- よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu) – Please treat me well / I’m in your debt (polite request or introduction ending)
Basic Questions and Responses
- はい (Hai) – Yes
- いいえ (Iie) – No
- お元気ですか？ (Ogenki desu ka?) – How are you?
- 名前は何ですか？ (Namae wa nan desu ka?) – What is your name?
- 私は＿＿＿です (Watashi wa ___ desu) – I am ___ (introducing oneself)
Useful Phrases for Help and Courtesy
- 手伝ってくれませんか？ (Tetsudatte kuremasen ka?) – Could you please help me? (polite)
- いただきます (Itadakimasu) – Said before meals (“I humbly receive”)
- ごちそうさまでした (Gochisousama deshita) – Said after meals (“Thank you for the meal”)
These phrases form a strong foundation for polite and respectful communication in Japanese for beginners, helping with greetings, gratitude, apologizing, and basic interactions.