Skip to content
Polite expressions and etiquette phrases to use in Japan visualisation

Polite expressions and etiquette phrases to use in Japan

Essential Japanese Phrases for Navigating Japan: Polite expressions and etiquette phrases to use in Japan
Learn with Comprenders App About Comprenders

In Japan, polite expressions and etiquette phrases are essential to show respect and good manners in social and business situations. Here are some key polite expressions and etiquette phrases to use in Japan:

Basic Polite Greetings

  • Ohayou-gozaimasu (おはようございます): Good morning (formal)
  • Kon’nichiwa (こんにちは): Hello/good afternoon (used during the day)
  • Konbanwa (こんばんは): Good evening
  • Arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます): Thank you very much (polite)
  • Dou itashimashite (どういたしまして): You’re welcome (less common in casual conversation, people say “Iie, zenzen” instead)
  • Sumimasen (すみません): Excuse me / sorry (used to get attention, apologize, or express thanks)

Polite Requests and Phrases for Interaction

  • Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします): A versatile phrase used when making requests, starting relationships, or expressing thanks for future help. It can mean “Please take care of me,” or “I look forward to working with you.”
  • Onegaishimasu (お願いします): Please (formal)
  • Gomen nasai (ごめんなさい): I’m sorry (more heartfelt apology)
  • Itadakimasu (いただきます): Said before eating, meaning “I humbly receive” (gratitude for food)
  • Gochisousama deshita (ごちそうさまでした): Said after eating, meaning “Thank you for the meal”

Polite Expressions in Work and Daily Life

  • Otsukaresama desu (お疲れ様です): A phrase to acknowledge someone’s hard work, commonly used in workplaces.
  • Ojamashimasu (お邪魔します): “Excuse me for disturbing you,” said when entering someone’s home.
  • Ganbarimashou (頑張りましょう): “Let’s do our best,” used to encourage teamwork or effort.
  • Hai (はい): Yes (affirmative response)
  • Iie (いいえ): No

Etiquette Tips

  • Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect.
  • Use last names with suffixes like -san rather than first names in formal situations.
  • Remove shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Avoid loud talking and public phone calls on trains.
  • Do not point with chopsticks or stick them vertically in rice (funeral custom).

These phrases and etiquette points reflect Japanese culture’s emphasis on respect, harmony, and consideration in communication and behavior.

References

Open the App About Comprenders