When it comes to saying goodbye on the phone in Japanese, it’s important to consider both the formal and informal expressions depending on the situation. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to bid farewell over the phone in Japanese, providing examples and tips to help you navigate these language nuances effortlessly.
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Formal Ways to Say Goodbye
1. さようなら (Sayōnara) – This is the most formal way to say goodbye in Japanese. It’s commonly used in formal situations or when you won’t be seeing the person for a long time. Example: さようなら、お世話になりました。 (Sayōnara, o-sewa ni narimashita.) – Goodbye, thank you for everything.
2. 失礼します (Shitsurei shimasu) – While this expression literally translates to “I will be rude,” it is a polite way to say goodbye before hanging up the phone. Example: 失礼します。 (Shitsurei shimasu.) – Goodbye.
Informal Ways to Say Goodbye
1. またね (Mata ne) – This is a casual and friendly way to say goodbye to someone you are on familiar terms with. Example: じゃあ、またね！ (Jaa, mata ne!) – Well then, see you later!
2. じゃあね (Jaa ne) – Similar to “see you later” in English, this informal phrase is commonly used when saying goodbye to friends or close colleagues. Example: じゃあね、明日会いましょう！ (Jaa ne, ashita aimashou!) – See you tomorrow!
Tips for Saying Goodbye on the Phone in Japanese
1. Use the appropriate level of politeness: Japanese culture places great emphasis on politeness, so it’s crucial to consider your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. Choose formal expressions when talking to superiors, clients, or strangers, and use informal phrases with friends and colleagues.
2. Add a personal touch: When saying goodbye, it’s common to include a tailored closing statement or wish. Adding a personal touch shows consideration and helps strengthen relationships. For example, you can say お体に気をつけて (o-karada ni kiwotsukete) meaning “Take care of yourself” or いってらっしゃい (itterasshai) which means “Take care as you leave.”
Examples of Saying Goodbye on the Phone in Japanese
Example 1:
Caller: もしもし、山田さんはいますか？ (Moshi moshi, Yamada-san wa imasu ka?) – Hello, is Mr. Yamada there?
Receiver: はい、山田ですが。 (Hai, Yamada-desu ga.) – Yes, this is Yamada speaking.
Caller: 失礼しますが、こちらはもう失礼させていただきます。 (Shitsurei shimasu ga, kochira wa mou shitsurei sasete itadakimasu.) – Sorry for interrupting, but I’ll hang up now.
Receiver: いいえ、どうぞ。お疲れさまでした。 (Iie, douzo. O-tsukare-sama deshita.) – No problem, goodbye. Thank you for your hard work.
Example 2:
Caller: おはよう、明日の会議はほかの場所で行います。 (Ohayou, ashita no kaigi wa hoka no basho de okonaimasu.) – Good morning, tomorrow’s meeting will be held elsewhere.
Receiver: 了解です。失礼します。 (Ryoukai desu. Shitsurei shimasu.) – Understood. Goodbye.
Example 3:
Caller: よし、映画のチケット予約、やった！ (Yoshi, eiga no chiketto yoyaku, yatta!) – Great, I managed to reserve the movie tickets!
Receiver: よかったね！それじゃあ、またね！ (Yokatta ne! Sore ja ne!) – That’s great! Well then, see you later!
Example 4:
Caller: お誕生日おめでとうございます！ (O-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu!) – Happy birthday!
Receiver: ありがとうございます！また連絡しますね！ (Arigatou gozaimasu! Mata renraku shimasu ne!) – Thank you! I’ll contact you again soon!
By using these phrases and following the cultural etiquette, you can confidently say goodbye on the phone in Japanese, whether in formal or informal contexts. Remember, showing respect and friendliness goes a long way in building positive relationships.
