初めまして
hajimemashite[ha̠ʑime̞ma̠ɕi̥te̞]
hajimemashite is the Japanese phrase for "Nice to meet you." when meeting someone for the first time.
初めまして is used to introduce yourself and let the other person know that this is your very first encounter. It is used exclusively at the very beginning of an introduction. A common way to complete an introduction is to say Hajimemashite. [Your Name] to mōshimasu, which means "Nice to meet you. I am [Your Name]." In this context, the phrase mōshimasu means "to say" or "to be called."
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is derived from the verb hajimeru (to begin), and literally conveys the sentiment that it is the first time meeting.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase is in a polite form, making it suitable for use with strangers, colleagues or superiors.
How do you pronounce it?
hajimemashite
Did you know?
- The word hajime inside the phrase also appears in the command hajime!, which is shouted by referees in martial arts like judo or karate to signal the start of a match.
- While hajimemashite starts the interaction, it is customary to end the introduction with yōroshiku onegaishimasu, a phrase with no direct English equivalent that asks for the other person's favor or kindness.
- While the phrase is used for humans, it can also be used humorously or poetically when encountering a new object or a place for the first time, as if the object itself is being introduced.
Examples in context
- 初めまして、田中です。Nice to meet you, I am Tanaka.
- 初めまして、お会いできて嬉しいです。Hajimemashite, oai dekite ureshii desu.Nice to meet you, I am happy to meet you.
Example conversation
Kenta and Misaki are meeting at a social gathering.
- 健太 Kenta初めまして、健太です。Hajimemashite, Kenta desu.Nice to meet you, I am Kenta.
- 美咲 Misaki初めまして、美咲です。Hajimemashite, Misaki desu.Nice to meet you, I am Misaki.
- 健太 Kentaよろしくお願いします。Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.It is a pleasure to meet you.
- 美咲 Misakiこちらこそ、よろしくお願いします。Kochira koso, yoroshiku onegaishimasu.The pleasure is mine, nice to meet you too.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 初めまして, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
