Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “desu”! Whether you’re learning Japanese or simply curious about the Japanese language, this article will provide you with useful tips and examples for saying “desu” in both formal and informal contexts. We will also touch on regional variations, although they are not as common. So, let’s dive into this guide, starting with a brief introduction.
Table of Contents
Introduction to “Desu”
In the Japanese language, “desu” serves as a copula verb, and it translates to “is” or “to be” in English. This versatile and frequently used word plays an essential role in Japanese grammatical structures. Understanding how to use “desu” with appropriate formality is crucial when speaking Japanese, as it helps convey your intentions and maintain proper politeness. Let’s explore the different ways to say “desu.”
Formal Ways to Say “Desu”
When communicating in formal situations, such as business settings, academic environments, or speaking with someone of higher social status, it is essential to use the appropriate language. In these contexts, it is customary to utilize the formal form of “desu,” which is “です.” Here are a few examples of how to say “desu” formally:
Example 1:
すみません、銀行はどこですか？
Sumimasen, ginkou wa doko desu ka?
Excuse me, where is the bank?
Example 2:
田中さんは先生です。
Tanaka-san wa sensei desu.
Mr./Ms. Tanaka is a teacher.
Remember, using “です” instead of “だ” in formal settings is considered polite, respectful, and professional.
Informal Ways to Say “Desu”
On the other hand, informal situations like casual conversations with friends, family, or people of the same social standing call for a more relaxed language style. In these instances, the informal form of “desu,” “だ,” is commonly used. Here are a couple of examples:
Example 1:
今日は忙しいんだ。
Kyou wa isogashii n da.
I’m busy today.
Example 2:
この絵は綺麗だよ。
Kono e wa kirei da yo.
This painting is beautiful, you know.
Using “だ” instead of “です” in informal contexts reflects a friendlier and more casual tone.
Regional Variations
While the standard forms “です” and “だ” are used nationwide in Japan, some regional dialects or accents incorporate variations of the copula verb. Although it’s not necessary to learn these for everyday communication in Japanese, it’s interesting to note a few examples:
Kansai Dialect:
In the Kansai region, which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto, people often use “やす” (yasu) instead of “です” in casual speech:
- そうです (Sou desu) becomes そうやす (Sou yasu).
- 行きます (Ikimasu) becomes 行くんやす (Iku n yasu).
Hokkaido Dialect:
In Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, people often use “だっちゃ” (daccha) instead of “です“:
- おいしいです (Oishii desu) becomes おいしいだっちゃ (Oishii daccha).
- 行きます (Ikimasu) becomes 行くだっちゃ (Iku daccha).
It’s important to note that these regional variations are not commonly used outside of their respective areas and are typically reserved for casual conversations among locals.
Conclusion
Now that you have gained a better understanding of how to say “desu” in both formal and informal contexts, as well as the regional variations, you can confidently incorporate the appropriate formality in your Japanese conversations. Remember, “です” is the formal form used in professional settings, while “だ” is the informal form used among friends and peers. Regional variations like “やす” in the Kansai dialect or “だっちゃ” in the Hokkaido dialect are interesting to know but are not necessary for everyday communication.
Enjoy mastering the use of “desu” and continue exploring the beautiful Japanese language! Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
