Learning how to express “Can you repeat that?” is an essential skill when communicating in a foreign language. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say this phrase in Japanese, both formally and informally. Additionally, we will provide helpful tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in and expand your Japanese language repertoire!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Can You Repeat That?”
When speaking in formal situations such as business meetings, interviews, or addressing someone significantly older or in a higher social position, it’s essential to use polite language. Here are some expressions you can use:
1. Sumimasen, mou ichido onegai shimasu.
Translation: Excuse me, could you please say that again?
This formal expression is suitable for most formal situations. It shows respect and politeness while requesting someone to repeat what they said.
2. Shitsurei shimasu ga, mo ichido yuukkuri hanashite kuremasen ka?
Translation: I’m sorry to interrupt, but could you please speak more slowly?
This phrase is useful when you not only want the speaker to repeat but also to slow down their speech.
Informal Ways to Say “Can You Repeat That?”
In casual or informal situations, such as talking with friends, family, or peers of the same age, you can use less formal expressions. Here are a couple of options:
1. Mou ichido itte kure.
Translation: Could you say that again?
This is a simple and commonly used phrase among friends or colleagues. It’s polite enough to be appropriate for most casual settings.
2. Mata ne?
Translation: Once more?
This expression is quite casual and can be used among close friends or in an informal setting with people you are comfortable with.
Tips for Using “Can You Repeat That?” in Japanese
When using these phrases, keep in mind the following tips:
- 1. Politeness is key: Japanese culture greatly values politeness, so always use polite language unless you are in a very informal setting.
- 2. Be attentive: Make sure you are actively listening and paying attention when someone is speaking. This shows respect and reduces the need to ask for repetition.
- 3. Use body language: If you are struggling to understand or hear someone, use appropriate non-verbal cues like leaning forward, tilting your head, or raising your hand slightly. This indicates that you need them to repeat or clarify what they said.
- 4. Practice active listening: Regularly expose yourself to Japanese audio materials like podcasts, movies, or conversation practice. This will improve your listening comprehension and reduce the frequency of needing to ask for repetition.
Remember, language learning is a journey, and it’s okay to make mistakes. Embrace the process, keep practicing, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself understanding and speaking Japanese with ease!
Regional Variations
Japanese is a diverse language with regional variations, especially in dialects and accents. However, the expressions mentioned above are universally understood throughout Japan. Nevertheless, here are a couple of regional variations:
Example 1: In the Kansai region, instead of saying “mou ichido itte kure,” people may use “mou ikkai itte kudasai,” which has the same meaning but a different phrasing.
Example 2: In the Tohoku region, “mou ichido onegai shimasu” might become “mou iccharo omee.”
These variations should only be considered if you are specifically interacting with locals or want to immerse yourself in a particular regional dialect.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned various ways to express “Can you repeat that?” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember to adapt your language based on the situation and the people you are interacting with. Politeness and attentiveness are crucial in Japanese communication. By following the tips mentioned in this guide, and with consistent practice, you’ll become more confident in understanding and engaging in conversations in Japanese. Ganbatte kudasai (Good luck)!
