Gordon Dennis
When it comes to expressing “coming through” in Japanese, it is important to consider both formal and informal situations. Depending on the context and level of politeness required, there are different phrases and expressions you can use. In this guide, we will explore various ways to convey the meaning of “coming through” in Japanese, providing tips, examples, and any regional variations if necessary.
Formal Expressions:
In formal situations, it is essential to use polite language and expressions. Here are some phrases you can utilize when you want to say “coming through” respectfully:
- 通ります (toorimasu): This is the most straightforward and commonly used way to say “coming through” formally in Japanese. It literally translates to “passing through.” For instance, if you want to let people know you are passing through a crowded area, you can say, “すみません、通ります” (Sumimasen, toorimasu), meaning “Excuse me, coming through.”
- お通ります (otoorimasu): By adding the honorific prefix “お” (o-) to “通ります” (toorimasu), you can show even more respect. This expression is suitable for formal situations or when addressing people of higher social status. For example, if you need to make your way through a group of esteemed guests, you can say, “お通ります、失礼します” (Otoorimasu, shitsurei shimasu), meaning “Please excuse me for coming through.”
- お邪魔します (ojama shimasu): Although it directly means “I will disturb you,” it can be used in a polite manner to indicate “coming through” or “excuse me” when entering someone’s personal space. This expression is commonly used when visiting someone’s home or office. For instance, if you need to pass by someone in a narrow hallway, you can say, “お邪魔します” (Ojama shimasu), meaning “Excuse me, coming through.”
Informal Expressions:
In more casual or informal situations, you can use less formal language to express “coming through.” Here are a few popular expressions commonly used among friends or acquaintances:
- ちょっと通るよ (chotto tooru yo): This is a casual way to say “coming through” among friends or peers. It roughly translates to “I’m going to pass for a bit.” For example, if you need to squeeze through a group of friends taking photos, you can say, “ちょっと通るよ” (Chotto tooru yo) to let them know you’re coming through.
- ちょっとすみません (chotto sumimasen): While this phrase literally means “excuse me for a moment,” it can also be used to convey the sense of “coming through.” It is a slightly more polite and formal way to express it compared to the previous example. For instance, if you need to slide past someone in a crowded bar, you can say, “ちょっとすみません” (Chotto sumimasen) to indicate you’re coming through.
- ちょっとよけてください (chotto yokete kudasai): This expression can be used when you want someone to move aside or step back to let you pass through. It translates to “Please move aside a little.” For example, if you need to get through a crowded train, you can say, “ちょっとよけてください” (Chotto yokete kudasai) to ask people to make way for you.
Remember to adjust the level of politeness and formality based on the specific situation and the relationship you have with the people around you. Japanese culture places great importance on respect and appropriate language use, so adapting your expressions accordingly is crucial.
Examples:
To help you understand these expressions further, here are a few situational examples:
- Formal Situations:
- Imagine you are at a bustling conference and need to pass through a group of attendees. You can say either “すみません、通ります” (Sumimasen, toorimasu) or “お通ります、失礼します” (Otoorimasu, shitsurei shimasu) to politely let them know you are coming through.
- Informal Situations:
- Picture yourself in a crowded shopping street, and you need to maneuver through a group of friends taking selfies. Saying “ちょっと通るよ” (Chotto tooru yo) would be an appropriate way to inform them that you are coming through.
- Alternatively, if you are at a house party and need to pass by someone blocking the way to the buffet table, saying “ちょっとすみません” (Chotto sumimasen) or “ちょっとよけてください” (Chotto yokete kudasai) would be polite and effective ways to indicate you’re coming through.
By using these phrases and expressions appropriately, you can convey the message of “coming through” in both formal and informal situations in Japanese. Always consider the level of politeness required and adjust your language accordingly.
