Greetings and the use of courteous language are highly valued in Japanese culture. When communicating in Japanese, it is important to convey respect and politeness through your choice of words and phrases. One commonly used phrase to express well-wishes is “Best Regards.” In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “Best Regards” in Japanese, both formally and informally. We will also provide tips, examples, and regional variations where applicable.
Table of Contents
1. How to Say “Best Regards” Formally:
When addressing someone formally or in a business setting, it is important to use polite language. Here are several expressions you can use to convey your best regards:
- 1.1. よろしくお願い申し上げます (Yoroshiku onegai moushiagemasu)
This phrase literally translates to “Please accept my humble regards” and is a formal and respectful way to express your best regards when meeting someone for the first time. It can also be used as a closing remark in formal letters or emails. - 1.2. 敬具 (Keigu)
Another formal way to end a business letter or email is by using the word “Keigu,” which means “Respectfully” or “Best Regards.” This is an abbreviated form that carries a similar formal connotation as the longer phrase above. - 1.3. 敬具を以て (Keigu o motte)
This expression is similar to “Keigu” but adds the phrase “o motte,” which means “with” or “by means of.” It is a polite way to indicate that you are ending your communication with respect and well-wishes. For example, you could say: “敬具を以て、ご挨拶申し上げます” (Keigu o motte, goaisatsu moushiagemasu), which means “With respectful regards, I present my greetings.”
2. How to Say “Best Regards” Informally:
When addressing friends or acquaintances in a more casual setting, you can use less formal expressions to express your regards. Here are a few options:
- 2.1. よろしくね (Yoroshiku ne)
This phrase is an informal and friendly way to say “Best regards.” It can be used among friends or in informal situations. “Yoroshiku ne” implies a sense of trust and goodwill between the speakers, and it is often used when asking for someone’s favor or assistance. - 2.2. よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu)
Although this phrase includes the polite “onegaishimasu,” it is commonly used in casual conversations as a slightly more formal way to express “Best regards.” It is suitable for both acquaintances and friends.
3. Tips and Examples:
Now that you are familiar with formal and informal expressions for “Best Regards” in Japanese, here are some tips and examples to help you use them effectively:
3.1 Formal Tips:
- As a basic rule, use formal expressions when addressing someone at work, superiors, business partners, or people you meet for the first time.
- Use keigo (polite language) to show respect and maintain a professional tone.
- When writing an email or a letter, you can use the phrase “Yoroshiku onegai moushiagemasu” as a closing remark, followed by your name and title.
Example:
将来のご繁栄を心より祈念いたしております。よろしくお願い申し上げます。
(Shourai no gohan’ei o kokoroyori kinen itashite orimasu. Yoroshiku onegai moushiagemasu.)
“We sincerely pray for your future prosperity. Best regards.”
3.2 Informal Tips:
- Informal expressions can be used among friends, colleagues in a more relaxed environment, or people you know well.
- “Yoroshiku ne” is commonly used at the end of a request or favor to express your appreciation in advance.
- Remember to adjust your level of politeness based on the relationship and context.
Example:
今週末は一緒に映画を見に行きましょう。よろしくね！
(Konshuumatsu wa issho ni eiga o mi ni ikimashou. Yoroshiku ne!)
“Let’s go watch a movie together this weekend. Best regards!”
It’s worth noting that there aren’t many regional variations when it comes to saying “Best Regards” in Japanese. The expressions covered in this guide are commonly used throughout Japan and should be understood by Japanese speakers from different regions.
Remember, mastering proper Japanese greetings and expressions showcases your respect for the language and the culture. By using these phrases appropriately, you can enhance your communication skills and create positive impressions in various social and professional settings. Best regards – ご愁傷様でした！
