Learning how to say “bill out” in different languages can be useful, especially when traveling or living in a foreign country. In Japan, it is important to know how to express this phrase politely in formal settings and more casually in informal situations. This guide will provide you with various ways to say “bill out” in Japanese, along with additional tips, examples, and regional variations if applicable.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Bill Out”
When you want to request the bill politely in a formal setting, such as high-end restaurants, business meetings, or other formal occasions, you can use the following phrases:
1. お勘定をお願いします (Okanjō o onegaishimasu)
This is a formal and polite way to say “bill out” in Japanese. It literally translates to “Please give me the bill.” This phrase is commonly used in restaurants and other formal establishments. It is important to note that when saying this phrase, it is customary to raise your hand slightly to politely call the server’s attention.
2. お会計をお願いします (O-kaikei o onegaishimasu)
This phrase is also used to request the bill politely in formal settings. It translates to “Please give me the bill” or “Please settle the bill.” While it has a similar meaning to the previous phrase, it’s another commonly used expression to indicate you are ready to pay.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Bill Out”
In more casual settings, like local eateries or when speaking with friends, you can use less formal expressions to say “bill out” in Japanese. Here are a couple of examples:
1. お勘定 (Okanjō)
When in a casual environment, you can omit the polite phrase “お願いします (onegaishimasu)” and simply say “お勘定.” This short phrase is still polite enough in most situations and conveys the meaning “the bill, please.”
2. お会計 (O-kaikei)
Similar to the previous example, in a casual setting, you can use “お会計” to refer to the bill. This phrase is widely understood, and it is common to use it among friends or in local establishments where formality is not strictly required.
Additional Tips and Examples
Tipping Culture in Japan
Unlike in some Western countries, tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be seen as rude. The bill typically includes the service charge, and providing exceptional service is considered a part of the job. Therefore, when requesting the bill or settling the payment, you are not expected to include an additional tip.
Using Non-Verbal Cues
Non-verbal cues play a significant role in Japanese communication. Aside from using the appropriate phrases, it is essential to practice politeness through gestures and body language. When you want to request the bill, you can make eye contact with the server, slightly raise your hand, or make a subtle nod towards them. These non-verbal cues signal your readiness to pay and show your respect for the service provided.
Example Conversations
Here are a couple of example conversations to help you better understand how to use the phrases mentioned above:
Conversation 1:
Customer: お勘定をお願いします (Okanjō o onegaishimasu).
Server: かしこまりました (Kashikomarimashita). お待ちください (Omachikudasai).
(Customer requests the bill, and the server acknowledges the request, asking the customer to wait.)
Conversation 2:
Customer: お会計をお願いします (O-kaikei o onegaishimasu).
Server: はい、かしこまりました (Hai, kashikomarimashita). お待ちください (Omachikudasai).
(Customer requests the bill, and the server acknowledges the request, asking the customer to wait.)
Conclusion
Knowing how to ask for the bill in Japanese is essential for a smooth dining experience or any other situation where payments are required. In formal settings, use phrases like “お勘定をお願いします” or “お会計をお願いします” to request the bill politely. In casual environments, you can simply say “お勘定” or “お会計.” Remember to utilize non-verbal cues and maintain a polite demeanor to show respect to the staff. Enjoy your time in Japan and savor the wonderful cuisine!
