一緒に遊ぼう
issho ni asobou
The English phrase 'come play with me' is translated into Japanese as 一緒に遊ぼう (issho ni asobou).
This phrase is an invitation to join someone in an activity for fun or amusement. While the verb used here, asobu, can refer to playing with toys, among adults it is frequently used to mean 'hanging out' or 'spending time together'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of 一緒に (issho ni), which means 'together' and the verb form 遊ぼう (asobou), which is an informal suggestion to play.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a polite invitation suitable for people you are not close with, you should use the form 一緒に遊びましょう. If you want to say 'Let's play with us', use the informal わたしたちと遊ぼう or the formal わたしたちと遊びましょう.
How do you pronounce it?
issho ni asobou
Did you know?
- In certain contexts, specifically in adult subcultures or romantic settings, the verb 遊ぶ can carry a suggestive undertone meaning to engage in casual or illicit dating.
- Historically, the root of 遊ぶ (asobu) was linked to the idea of 'wandering' or 'strolling' without a fixed destination.
- In the context of traditional performing arts, 遊ぶ (asobu) can refer to the act of performing or practicing music and dance.
Examples in context
- 公園で一緒に遊ぼう！Kouen de issho ni asobou!Let's play together at the park!
- 暇なら一緒に遊ぼう。Hima nara issho ni asobou.If you're free, come play with me.
Example conversation
Misaki and Ren are at school during recess.
- 美咲 Misaki蓮くん、一緒に遊ぼう！Ren-kun, issho ni asobou!Ren, come play with me!
- 蓮 Renいいよ！何をしようか？Ii yo! Nani o shiyou ka?Sure! What should we do?
- 美咲 Misakiあっちでかけっこしよう。Acchi de kakekko shiyou.Let's race over there.
- 蓮 Renうん、行こう！Un, ikou!Yeah, let's go!
