As the new year approaches, it’s common to exchange wishes of good fortune and happiness with others. If you’re looking to extend your greetings in Japanese, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to say “Happy New Year” in different contexts, covering both formal and informal ways.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Greetings:
If you want to express your well wishes in a formal setting, such as at work, to your superiors, or to someone you have a respectful relationship with, the following phrases will be appropriate:
a) “Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu”
This is the standard and most formal way to say “Happy New Year” in Japanese. It’s pronounced as “ah-keh-mah-shee-teh oh-meh-deh-toh goh-za-ee-mahss”. By using the respectful honorific form “gozaimasu,” you show your respect to the other person.
b) “Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegai shimasu”
This phrase can be used before New Year’s Day and conveys not only your New Year’s wishes but also your hope for a continued good relationship throughout the year. It’s pronounced as “koh-toh-shee moh yoh-roh-shee-koo oh-neh-gai shee-mahss”.
2. Informal Greetings:
If you are greeting friends, family, or people of the same age group, you can use more informal expressions to wish them a Happy New Year:
a) “Akemashite omedetou”
This is a casual variation of the formal greeting mentioned earlier. It’s pronounced as “ah-keh-mah-shee-teh oh-meh-deh-toh”. The absence of “gozaimasu” makes it less formal and suitable for close relationships.
b) “Yoi otoshi o”
This expression is a more colloquial way of wishing someone a Happy New Year. It’s pronounced as “yoh-ee oh-toh-shee oh”. Although it’s not as commonly used as other phrases, it can still be heard among friends and family.
3. Additional Tips:
a) Timing:
In Japan, the New Year is a significant holiday, and greetings are typically exchanged from January 1st to 7th. If you want to wish someone a Happy New Year in Japanese, it’s best to do so during this period.
b) Bowing:
When offering your greetings, it’s customary to bow slightly as a sign of respect. The depth of the bow depends on the level of formality and your relationship with the other person.
c) Sending Cards:
Japanese New Year greeting cards, known as “nengajo,” are commonly exchanged during this season. These cards often feature traditional symbols like the zodiac animal of the upcoming year.
“I sent my Japanese friend a nengajo with the phrase ‘Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu’ written inside. They really appreciated the gesture!” – Sarah
4. Regional Variations:
While the phrases mentioned above are widely used throughout Japan, it’s essential to note that there may be slight regional variations in dialect and customs:
- Kansai Region: In the Kansai dialect, the phrase “Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu” may be pronounced as “Akemashite omedetou gazaimasu.”
“During my visit to Osaka, I learned to say ‘Akemashite omedetou gazaimasu.’ The locals were delighted to hear me using their dialect.” – Mark
Tohoku Region: In northern Japan, instead of “Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu,” people may say “Akemashite omedetou gozaimashita” to refer to the past year’s New Year’s celebration.
“When I celebrated New Year’s in Sendai, I used ‘Akemashite omedetou gozaimashita’ to greet everyone. They were impressed with my knowledge of the local customs.” – Emily
By using these formal and informal greetings and incorporating some regional variations, you can confidently extend your New Year’s wishes to Japanese friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Remember to consider the relationship and level of formality before selecting the appropriate phrase. May your New Year be filled with joy and prosperity!
