少しいただけますか
sukoshi itadakemasu ka
The English phrase "can I have some" is expressed in Japanese as 少しいただけますか (sukoshi itadakemasu ka).
This phrase is used to make a polite request for a small portion of something. Because Japanese relies heavily on context, you do not need to specify the object you are requesting if it is already clear what is being discussed.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase いただけますか is the potential form of the humble verb itadaku, which means "to receive". Thus, the phrase literally means "can I receive (polite)".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
少しいただけますか is a polite and respectful way to ask for a small portion of something. It is suitable for use with acquaintances or when speaking to staff in restaurants. If you want to say "Please" in a polite way, you can also use Onegaishimasu, which can function to mean "May I have some?" For very informal situations, you might use Chotto, choudai? to mean "Hey, can I have some?" or Nanka kureru? to mean "Can you give me something?"
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle ka at the end of the phrase is used to turn the polite statement into a question.
How do you pronounce it?
sukoshi itadakemasu ka
Did you know?
- The verb itadaku is so humble that it is historically linked to the physical gesture of holding food above one's head to show respect to the life being consumed.
- Using the word 少し (a little) in this request is often a social tool called 'enryo' or restraint. It allows the speaker to avoid appearing greedy even if they intend to take a significant amount.
- While いただけますか is polite, the informal ちょうだい is often associated with the way children speak to parents. Using it with a superior can sound unintentionally spoiled or demanding.
Examples in context
- そのケーキを少しいただけますか？Sono kēki o sukoshi itadakemasu ka?Can I have a little bit of that cake?
- お水を少しいただけますか？Omizu o sukoshi itadakemasu ka?Can I have some water?
- 新しいレシピのコツを少しいただけますか？Atarashii reshipi no kotsu o sukoshi itadakemasu ka?Can I have a few tips for the new recipe?
Example conversation
Hiyori and Kenta are sharing a snack at home.
- 陽葵 Himariそのケーキ、少しいただけますか。Sono kēki, sukoshi itadakemasu ka.Can I have some of that cake?
- 健太 Kentaいいですよ。どうぞ。Ii desu yo. Dōzo.Sure. Go ahead.
- 陽葵 Himariありがとうございます。Arigatō gozaimasu.Thank you very much.
- 健太 Kentaいいえ、気にしないでください。Iie, kinishinaide kudasai.No, please don't worry about it.
