What are some common phrases to use when meeting new people in Japan
日本語学習者のための日常生活に欠かせない質問: What are some common phrases to use when meeting new people in Japan
Here are some common phrases to use when meeting new people in Japan that reflect typical polite and friendly introductions:
- はじめまして (Hajimemashite) — “Nice to meet you.” Used only the first time you meet someone.
- 私の名前は[Your Name]です (Watashi no namae wa [Your Name] desu) — “My name is [Your Name].”
- [Country]から来ました ([Country] kara kimashita) — “I am from [Country].”
- 観光で来ています (Kankō de kite imasu) — “I am visiting as a tourist.”
- よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegai shimasu) — A polite phrase meaning “Please treat me well” or “Pleased to meet you,” used to end an introduction.
Additional conversation starters commonly used after initial introductions include:
- お元気ですか? (O-genki desu ka?) — “How are you?”
- 日本に来てからどのぐらいですか? (Nihon ni kite kara dono gurai desu ka?) — “How long have you been in Japan?”
- 何をされていますか? (Nani o sarete imasu ka?) — “What do you do?” or “What is your job?”
- 和食は好きですか? (Washoku wa suki desu ka?) — “Do you like Japanese food?”
In Japan, bowing slightly while saying these greetings adds respect and shows sincerity. Starting conversations with these common phrases will make a good first impression and help build connections when meeting new people.