いただきます
itadakimasu
In Japanese, the phrase used to say "before eating" is いただきます (itadakimasu).
The phrase いただきます is used to express gratitude before starting a meal. It can be translated as "I humbly receive."
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is the humble form of the verb itadaku, which means to receive or to take.
How does it change in a sentence?
いただきます is the polite form of the expression.
How do you pronounce it?
itadakimasu
When do people say it?
By saying いただきます, you express gratitude not only to the cook but also to the plants and animals that gave their lives for the meal.
Did you know?
- The verb at the heart of the phrase, itadaku, is historically associated with holding something high above one's head. This reflects the humble act of receiving something from a superior or a deity.
- When saying いただきます, it is customary to press your hands together in a prayer-like gesture called gassho. This physical movement reinforces the sense of gratitude and spiritual connection to the meal.
- While いただきます is said before a meal, the phrase ごちそうさま is used after eating to complete the cycle of gratitude.
Examples in context
- ご飯を食べる前には、「いただきます」を言ってから食べるのがマナーだからね。It's polite to say "itadakimasu" before eating one's meal.This sentence illustrates that it is polite to say いただきます before eating one's meal.Tatoeba #1131390 by bunbuku, translation #2674353 by WestofEden
- 手を合わせて、いただきます。Te o awasete, itadakimasu.I say "itadakimasu" with my hands pressed together.
Example conversation
Kenta and Himari are about to start their lunch together.
- 健太 Kentaさあ、ご飯ができたよ。Saa, gohan ga dekita yo.All right, the food is ready.
- 陽葵 Himariわあ、美味しそう！いただきます。Waa, oishisou! Itadakimasu.Wow, it looks delicious! Let's eat.
- 健太 Kentaゆっくり食べてね。Yukkuri tabete ne.Enjoy your meal.
- 陽葵 Himariありがとう、健太くん。Arigatou, Kenta-kun.Thank you, Kenta.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
